Crafting modern sequels to movies that concluded their stories decades ago is a challenging task, but Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F succeeds remarkably well. This film feels like a natural continuation of the original trilogy, capturing the essence of the previous movies without resorting to a toned-down, family-friendly approach.
It stars Eddie Murphy in his iconic role, accompanied by a vintage soundtrack that resonates with the original films’ energy.
The plot centers on Axel Foley’s return to Beverly Hills when his daughter, a defense attorney, is threatened to abandon a case. Written by Will Beall, the story involves Foley confronting corrupt cops, differing from the earlier films where he battled drug smugglers, gunrunners, and counterfeiters. The movie starts with a nod to the original film, showing Foley in his blue Chevy Nova, immediately setting a nostalgic yet fresh tone.
Eddie Murphy seamlessly reprises his role as Axel Foley, delivering a performance that balances the character’s sharp wit and street-smart tactics with the wisdom and weariness that come with age. Unlike his family-friendly role in Coming 2 America, Murphy’s Foley retains his edgy charm.
The character’s humor and improvisational skills are intact, making him the driving force of the film without ever becoming the butt of the joke.
Returning characters from the original trilogy, like Paul Reiser’s Jeffrey Friedman and Judge Reinhold’s Billy Rosewood, are integrated logically into the story. Reiser’s character has become Foley’s superior, and Reinhold’s Rosewood remains true to his sensitive nature.
John Ashton returns as John Taggart, though his role feels slightly out of sync with the established friendship between Taggart and Foley. Bronson Pinchot’s brief appearance as Serge is a standout moment, delighting fans with his familiar quirks.
New characters, such as Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s Detective Bobby Abbott and Taylour Paige as Foley’s daughter, Jane, add fresh dynamics to the film. Gordon-Levitt portrays a competent detective who respects Foley, while Paige brings a strong presence, although her character’s backstory could be deeper. Their interactions with Foley help ground the movie in a blend of old and new elements.
Director Mark Molloy maintains the action style of the ’80s and ’90s predecessors, opting for conventional combat and car chases over modern, flashy sequences.
This approach preserves the series’ authenticity, with scenes like a low-altitude helicopter chase blending excitement with humor. Lorne Balfe’s synth-heavy score, reminiscent of Harold Faltermeyer’s work, enhances the nostalgic feel, despite one misplaced modern track by Lil Nas X during a car chase.
In conclusion, Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F is a successful return for Eddie Murphy, capturing the spirit of the original trilogy with its consistent tone, engaging story, and balanced mix of comedy, action, and nostalgia. The film respects its roots while introducing new elements, making it a satisfying watch for both old fans and new audiences.