The murder mystery genre is experiencing a massive resurgence in today’s entertainment landscape. With the return of Only Murders in the Building for its fifth season, the success of Netflix’s The Thursday Murder Club adaptation, and the upcoming Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, it’s clear that audiences can’t get enough of whodunits. What makes these stories so compelling is their mix of familiar tropes, cozy intrigue, and the chance for viewers to play detective themselves.
Yet, among the many popular shows and films in this space, one Apple TV+ series remains a hidden treasure: The Afterparty.
What is The Afterparty About?
The Afterparty made its debut on Apple TV+ in January 2022. Featuring an all-star cast led by Tiffany Haddish, Sam Richardson, and Zoë Chao, the series takes a unique approach to the murder mystery format. At its core, the show revolves around a murder that unfolds during an after-party, with each guest offering their own version of events.
Unlike traditional mysteries, The Afterparty blends comedy with suspense, creating a refreshing mix of humor and intrigue. The stellar ensemble includes comedic talents like Ben Schwartz, Ilana Glazer, John Cho, and Ken Jeong, ensuring that even the darkest moments come with a sharp comedic twist.
The Unique Storytelling Style
One of the show’s most distinctive features is its non-linear narrative. Instead of following a straightforward investigation, Detective Danner (played by Tiffany Haddish) asks each witness to recount their experience of the night—what she refers to as their “mind movies.”
Every episode presents the same night from a different perspective, with the genre shifting depending on the storyteller. This means one episode might feel like a musical, another like a horror film, and yet another like an animated feature. This creative structure not only keeps viewers engaged but also rewards those who pay close attention, since each account adds new layers to the mystery while highlighting contradictions that eventually reveal the truth.
Season 1 vs. Season 2
- Season 1: The story begins with the murder of pop star Xavier (played by Dave Franco) during his own after-party following a high school reunion. Each of his former classmates becomes a potential suspect, and their stories slowly unravel his fate.
- Season 2: The formula continues with a new case—this time surrounding the wedding of Grace (Poppy Liu) and Edgar (Zach Woods). Again, Detective Danner steps in to question the guests, including family members and business partners, uncovering motives and secrets in the process.
Both seasons showcase the series’ inventive format while introducing fresh ensembles of actors that enhance its humor and charm.
Why The Afterparty Deserves More Attention
In an era of binge-worthy content, The Afterparty fits perfectly. With Season 1 offering eight episodes and Season 2 expanding to ten, both seasons can be easily enjoyed over a weekend. Its clever structure, comedic brilliance, and standout performances make it one of the most creative murder mysteries on television.
Unfortunately, despite critical acclaim, Apple TV+ did not renew the series for a third season. Still, for fans of Knives Out, Only Murders in the Building, and The Thursday Murder Club, The Afterparty remains an essential watch—a quirky, intelligent, and deeply entertaining show that redefines the murder mystery genre.
Final Thoughts
Murder mysteries have never been more popular, and while big titles dominate the headlines, Apple TV+’s The Afterparty stands out as a bold and inventive take on the genre. Its blend of mystery, comedy, and genre-bending narratives make it one of the most underrated shows streaming today. With any luck, renewed interest in the genre might spark a revival for this hidden gem.
