Why does Oliver think he is cursed on “Only Murders in the Building?”

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Broadway, with its glitz and glamour, has always been a place where dreams are made. But for some, like Oliver from the hit series "Only Murders in the Building," it seems more like a place where dreams go to die. Oliver's Broadway career, as he himself mentions, feels "cursed." But what does that really mean? Let's take a deep dive into the complexities of Oliver's relationship with the Great White Way.

The Allure of Broadway

For many, Broadway represents the pinnacle of success in the performing arts. It's where actors, directors, and producers aspire to be. The lights, the applause, the standing ovations - it's all part of the Broadway dream. Oliver, played with a delightful mix of desperation and optimism by Martin Short, is no exception. His passion for the theater is evident, and his dreams are as big as the New York skyline.

The Downward Spiral

However, as we've seen in "Only Murders in the Building," not everything has gone according to plan for Oliver. His latest play, which should have been a triumphant return to the stage, is on the brink of collapse following the sudden death of its lead actor, Ben Glenroy. This isn't the first time Oliver has faced such challenges. Throughout the series, there are hints and mentions of past failures, suggesting a pattern of bad luck or, as Oliver puts it, a "curse."

The Nature of the "Curse"

But what is the nature of this curse? Is it merely a string of bad luck, or is there something more at play? One theory could be that Oliver's choices in projects aren't in line with what the audience wants. Broadway, after all, is as much about business as it is about art. If a play doesn't resonate with audiences, it won't succeed, no matter how passionate its director is.

Another theory could be that Oliver, in his eagerness to succeed, might overlook critical aspects of production, leading to subpar performances. Or perhaps, the universe just has it out for him, throwing one obstacle after another in his path.

The Emotional Toll

The series does an excellent job of showcasing the emotional toll this "curse" takes on Oliver. His desperation to save his dying play, even going to the extent of trying to speak to his producers at Ben's funeral, speaks volumes about his state of mind. The world of theater is brutal, and repeated failures can break even the most resilient spirits.

The Path Forward

Despite the setbacks, Oliver's passion for theater remains undiminished. In the face of adversity, he decides to turn his play into a musical, showcasing his indomitable spirit. It's a bold move, one that could either break the curse or plunge him further into the abyss of failure.

Oliver's journey on "Only Murders in the Building" serves as a poignant reminder of the highs and lows of the world of theater. His "cursed" Broadway career is a testament to the challenges faced by those in the performing arts. But it's also a story of hope, resilience, and the undying passion for one's craft. Whether Oliver will finally find success or continue to be plagued by his curse remains to be seen. But one thing is for sure - his journey is one that resonates with anyone who has ever dared to dream big.