Only Murders in the Building: The importance of Motive revealed: Dickie feeling overshadowed by adoptive brother. explained
The revelation of Dickie's motive in Only Murders in the Building carries significant weight in understanding his character and his potential involvement in the murder mystery. Throughout the episode, it becomes clear that Dickie feels overshadowed by his adoptive brother, Ben, and this underlying resentment may have played a crucial role in the events leading up to the murder.From the beginning, it is evident that Dickie and Ben have a strained relationship. Dickie openly expresses his frustrations, feeling that Ben's successes consistently overshadow his own accomplishments. This deep-seated resentment creates a motive for Dickie to take drastic measures to stand out and possibly eliminate the person who he perceives as stealing his spotlight.The episode's sitzprobe rehearsal becomes a turning point as Loretta, the director, confides in Dickie that she has been lying to him. It is in this vulnerable moment that Loretta's admission unlocks something within Dickie. His pent-up emotions are unleashed, and it becomes apparent that his envy and feelings of being overshadowed by Ben have been simmering beneath the surface for a long time.The motive of feeling overshadowed by a sibling is a common theme in psychological studies and literature. It taps into the core of human emotions, highlighting the complexities of sibling relationships and the power dynamics that can shape them. Dickie's motive reveals how deep-seated insecurities and a desire for validation can drive individuals to extreme actions.The revelation of Dickie's motive adds a layer of complexity to the murder mystery. It raises questions about his potential involvement and the extent to which his envy may have led him to murder Ben. While it is not explicitly stated that Dickie is the killer, his motive serves as a significant piece of the puzzle for Mabel, Oliver, and the audience to consider.Furthermore, Dickie's motive sheds light on the wider theme of jealousy and its destructive potential. It underscores the universal human experience of comparing oneself to others and the damaging consequences that can arise from such comparisons. Dickie's driving motivation to step out of Ben's shadow illustrates the detrimental effects of unresolved jealousy and the lengths some individuals will go to escape it.The significance of motive in a murder mystery cannot be overstated. In this case, Dickie's motive is a crucial element in understanding his character and potential involvement in the crime. It adds depth and complexity to the narrative, highlighting the universal theme of sibling rivalry and the destructive power of envy. As the series unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how this motive is further explored and whether it ultimately leads to unmasking the true killer.