The iconic Arconia building in “Only Murders in the Building” isn’t a theater, but the Belnord apartment building located at 225 West 86th Street in Manhattan, New York City, serves as its imposing and instantly recognizable exterior. While no actual theater resides within its walls, the series cleverly incorporates elements of theatricality, both within its narrative and through the backgrounds of its main characters.
The Belnord: More Than Just Bricks and Mortar
The Belnord, a grand pre-war apartment building occupying an entire city block, provides the perfect backdrop for the show’s blend of mystery, comedy, and social commentary. Its distinctive courtyard, meticulously manicured gardens, and ornate architecture lend an air of old-world charm and exclusivity, contrasting sharply with the often-dark secrets hidden within its walls. The show’s success hinges on the audience buying into the believability of the Arconia as a microcosm of Manhattan society, and the Belnord delivers that in spades.
A Stage for Life’s Dramas
The show deliberately uses the building itself as a character. The vastness of the Arconia, with its numerous apartments and diverse residents, mirrors the complexities of human relationships and the hidden connections that bind us together. Just as a theater provides a stage for actors to perform, the Arconia becomes a stage for the characters’ lives to unfold, complete with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations. The architecture reinforces the idea that everyone is, in a way, playing a role.
The Theatrical Tropes Within
Beyond the physical location, the show masterfully employs theatrical tropes to enhance its storytelling. From the staging of scenes to the deliberate use of dialogue, “Only Murders in the Building” embraces the art of dramatic presentation. The characters, particularly Oliver Putnam, are acutely aware of this theatricality, often commenting on the plot’s twists and turns as if they were reviewing a play.
Oliver Putnam: The Director of His Own Reality
Oliver, a struggling Broadway director, injects a constant stream of theatrical references into the narrative. He views life through the lens of the stage, often framing events in terms of dramatic structure and character development. His penchant for dramatics and his inherent understanding of performance add a layer of meta-commentary to the show, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. His constant need for funding further ties the world of amateur detective work with that of struggling theater productions.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into the Arconia and Beyond
Here are some frequently asked questions about the filming locations, theatrical elements, and other aspects of “Only Murders in the Building”:
FAQ 1: Is the Arconia a Real Building?
While the Arconia is a fictional building, its exterior is primarily the Belnord apartment building in New York City. Interior shots are filmed on soundstages, allowing for greater control and flexibility in creating the show’s distinctive aesthetic.
FAQ 2: Where are the Interior Scenes Filmed?
Interior scenes, including the apartments of Mabel, Charles, and Oliver, are filmed on soundstages located at Silvercup Studios in Queens, New York. This allows the production team to create custom sets that reflect the characters’ personalities and lifestyles.
FAQ 3: Did the Actors Actually Live in the Belnord During Filming?
No, the actors did not live in the Belnord during filming. The building is a real residential building, and while some exterior shots were filmed on location with residents present, the majority of the filming took place on soundstages.
FAQ 4: Is the Courtyard of the Arconia (Belnord) Open to the Public?
No, the courtyard of the Belnord is not open to the general public. It is a private space for residents of the building. Trying to gain access might be considered trespassing.
FAQ 5: What Inspired the Creation of the Arconia?
The Arconia is inspired by the many grand, historic apartment buildings in New York City, particularly those on the Upper West Side. The show’s creators wanted to capture the unique atmosphere and history of these buildings, where secrets often lie hidden behind closed doors.
FAQ 6: How Does Oliver’s Theatrical Background Influence the Show?
Oliver’s background as a Broadway director permeates the show, influencing the plot, dialogue, and overall tone. He often views the murder mystery as a play, injecting dramatic flair and theatrical references into the investigation. He is constantly looking for opportunities to direct and produce, reflecting his deep passion for the stage.
FAQ 7: Are There Any Real-Life Murders Associated with the Belnord?
While the Belnord has a rich history, there are no well-known or documented murders directly associated with the building. The series draws inspiration from the general atmosphere of mystery often associated with older apartment buildings.
FAQ 8: What Role Does the Building Play in the Overall Story?
The building serves as a central character in the series, acting as both a physical setting and a symbol of community, isolation, and hidden secrets. Its architecture, history, and diverse residents all contribute to the overall narrative.
FAQ 9: Does the Show Ever Film in Other Real-Life Locations in New York City?
Yes, “Only Murders in the Building” often films in other real-life locations throughout New York City, including streets, parks, and restaurants. These locations add to the show’s authenticity and capture the city’s vibrant atmosphere. For example, areas around Columbus Circle and Central Park frequently appear.
FAQ 10: How Realistic is the Show’s Portrayal of New York City Apartment Buildings?
The show captures the general ambiance of New York City apartment buildings quite well, particularly the mix of residents, the quirks of old construction, and the sense of community (or lack thereof). However, it also exaggerates certain aspects for comedic and dramatic effect.
FAQ 11: What is the Significance of the Podcast in the Series?
The podcast serves as a narrative device, allowing the characters to investigate the murder, share their theories, and engage with a wider audience. It also provides a meta-commentary on the true crime genre and the way we consume stories about crime.
FAQ 12: Will There Be More Seasons of “Only Murders in the Building”?
Yes, “Only Murders in the Building” has been renewed for multiple seasons, indicating its ongoing popularity and the continued interest in the characters and their captivating stories. The producers are committed to keeping the spirit of the show alive while continuing to unveil new mysteries to solve.