How did Ben get the red mark on his face in “Only Murders in the Building?”
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When it comes to mystery series, no detail is too small, no clue too insignificant. From the moment we saw that red mark on Ben's face during "Only Murders in the Building" Season 3, Episode 4, it was clear that there was more to this seemingly incidental feature than meets the eye. And, true to form, the series does a fantastic job of weaving even the tiniest elements into the bigger tapestry of its intricate plot.
A Mark of Violence or Vanity?
To start, it's essential to differentiate between the possibilities of how the mark came about. Was it the result of an accident? Perhaps Ben bumped into something, or maybe it was a scratch from an animal? Another theory could be that it was the aftermath of a violent encounter, possibly a hint at an unknown threat to Ben before the events of his eventual downfall.
But then again, in a world where appearances matter, especially in show business, it could merely be a blemish or some form of skin issue, embarrassing enough for Ben to seek professional help. This angle introduces another series of questions: Who was this professional, and could they potentially be involved in the broader story?
Decoding the Red: Symbolism in Cinema
Colors have always played a significant role in cinema, often used as tools to convey emotions, set moods, or signify important events or characteristics. Red, for instance, is usually associated with strong emotions, ranging from love and passion to anger and danger. Could the show's creators be using the red mark as a metaphorical lens, urging viewers to focus on the fiery aspects of Ben's life?
Considering the tight-knit and often scandal-ridden communities that form the backdrop of "Only Murders in the Building," the mark could symbolize the target on Ben's back. It serves as a constant reminder that he had secrets, enemies, and was embroiled in a world of envy, competition, and perhaps betrayal.
The Butterfly Effect
Another angle to explore is the interconnectedness of events. Let's hypothesize for a moment that the red mark is an innocent blemish. By attempting to remove it, Ben interacts with a professional, perhaps someone outside his immediate circle. This interaction could have set off a chain of events leading to his demise, emphasizing the butterfly effect, where the smallest event can result in a cascade of unforeseen consequences.
Fan Theories and Speculations
Ever since the red mark made its appearance, fan forums and social media have been abuzz with theories:
The Secret Relationship Angle: Some speculate that the mark wasn't a blemish but a love bite, hinting at a secret romantic relationship that could play a central role in the mystery.
The Allergic Reaction Theory: Others believe that the red mark was a reaction to Kimber's anti-aging serum, drawing a direct link to the product that seems central to the plot.
The Clue to the Past: Some die-hard fans with keen eyes have noted that we've seen a similar mark in flashbacks from earlier seasons, suggesting that this might be a recurring event or a clue tying together different timelines.
