Joao Nsita
- Aug 6
- 8 min read

Review: Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F - A Nostalgic Joyride That Defies Expectations

Updated: Aug 14

In an era where legacy sequels often feel like cynical cash grabs, "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" emerges as a refreshing surprise, proving that sometimes you can teach an old cop new tricks. Director Mark Molloy's revival of the iconic 1980s franchise doesn't just coast on nostalgia; it reignites the spark that made the original a classic while adapting to the sensibilities of a modern audience. With Eddie Murphy back in the saddle as the irreverent Axel Foley, this fourth installment manages to be both a loving homage to its roots and a standalone entertainment that doesn't require encyclopedic knowledge of the series to enjoy.

Introduction: The Return of a Legend

When news broke of another "Beverly Hills Cop" sequel, skepticism was the prevailing emotion among fans and critics alike. After all, the law of diminishing returns had hit the franchise hard with its previous sequels.

However, "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" defies expectations from its opening frames. Set against the backdrop of a world that has changed dramatically since Axel Foley first fish-out-of-watered his way through Beverly Hills, this new chapter proves that there's still life in the old dog yet.

Director Mark Molloy, making his feature film debut, teams up with a cast that includes series veteran Eddie Murphy, alongside fresh faces Taylour Paige, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Kevin Bacon. The result is a film that balances the swagger of its predecessor with a contemporary edge, creating a cinematic experience that's both familiar and surprisingly fresh.

Plot Summary: Back to the Hills

"Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" opens with a bang – literally. We find Axel Foley (Eddie Murphy) still raising hell in Detroit, this time disrupting a Red Wings game to foil a robbery in a sequence that culminates in a hilariously destructive snowplow chase through the city. It's a set piece that immediately announces the film's intentions: to deliver the kind of practical, stunt-heavy action that defined the original, while updating it for modern sensibilities.

The plot kicks into high gear when Axel learns that his estranged daughter Jane (Taylour Paige), an attorney in Beverly Hills, has been targeted by corrupt cops after getting too close to a case. This personal stakes draw Axel back to the sun-soaked streets of Beverly Hills, where he reunites with old friends Billy Rosewood (Judge Reinhold) and John Taggart (John Ashton), now the police chief.

As Axel investigates, he crosses paths with Detective Bobby Abbott (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), Jane's ex and a potential ally, and the seemingly nefarious Captain Cade Grant (Kevin Bacon). The investigation uncovers a web of corruption that goes deeper than anyone expected, forcing Axel to confront not just the bad guys, but also his own aging process and his strained relationship with his daughter.

The film's unique selling point lies in its ability to weave together multiple threads: the fish-out-of-water comedy that made the original a hit, a father-daughter reconciliation story, and a commentary on the changing face of law enforcement in the 21st century. It's a balancing act that the film pulls off with surprising dexterity.

Director's Style and Cinematic Elements: Old School Meets New Tricks

Mark Molloy's direction is a love letter to the aesthetics of '80s and '90s action comedies, while still feeling contemporary. The film is bathed in the warm, golden hues of California sunsets, reminiscent of Tony Scott's work on "Beverly Hills Cop II," but with a crispness that places it firmly in the present day.

Cinematographer Eduard Grau captures the action with a dynamic energy that harks back to the original while employing modern techniques to enhance the excitement. The chase scenes, in particular, stand out as well-choreographed set pieces that prioritize practical effects over CGI, a refreshing choice in an era of over-digitized action.

Editor Dan Lebental, fresh off his work on "Bad Boys: Ride or Die," brings a tight rhythm to the film, ensuring that the pacing never lags. The action sequences are punctuated by quieter character moments, creating a balanced viewing experience that allows both the comedy and drama room to breathe.

The film's score, composed by Lorne Balfe, cleverly incorporates elements of Harold Faltermeyer's iconic original theme while expanding on it to create something that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The soundtrack, peppered with tracks from the massive 1984 hit album, serves as an auditory time machine without feeling like a cheap nostalgia play.

Themes and Deeper Meaning: More Than Just Laughs

While "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" is primarily an entertainment vehicle, it doesn't shy away from exploring deeper themes. The film grapples with the concept of aging in a profession that often discards its veterans, as evidenced by the subplot involving Axel's former partner Jeffrey Friedman (Paul Reiser) retiring from his position as Detroit's Chief of Police.

The strained relationship between Axel and his daughter Jane serves as an emotional anchor for the film, exploring themes of absentee parenting and the struggle to connect across generational divides. This adds a layer of depth to Axel's character that was absent in previous installments, allowing Murphy to showcase his dramatic chops alongside his comedic talents.

The film also touches on the changing landscape of law enforcement in the age of social media and increased scrutiny. While it doesn't dive too deeply into these issues, it acknowledges the evolving nature of police work and the challenges faced by officers in maintaining public trust.

Acting Performances: Murphy's Law of Charisma

Eddie Murphy proves that he hasn't lost a step, slipping back into the role of Axel Foley with an ease that belies the decades since he last played the character. His performance is a masterclass in comic timing, but with an added layer of world-weariness that adds depth to the character. Murphy's Axel is older and perhaps a bit wiser, but no less quick with a quip or a scheme.

Taylour Paige shines as Jane, holding her own against Murphy and bringing a grounded presence to the film. Her chemistry with Murphy feels authentic, making their father-daughter dynamic one of the film's strongest elements.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt provides solid support as Detective Abbott, serving as both a foil and an ally to Axel. His more strait-laced approach to police work contrasts nicely with Axel's unorthodox methods. Kevin Bacon chews the scenery with relish as the antagonistic Captain Grant, providing a worthy adversary for Axel's antics.

The return of Judge Reinhold and John Ashton as Rosewood and Taggart respectively provides welcome continuity with the earlier films. While their roles are somewhat reduced, their presence adds to the film's nostalgic appeal without overwhelming the new storylines.

Strengths: A Well-Oiled Machine

"Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" excels in its ability to recapture the spirit of the original while forging its own identity. The action sequences are well-crafted and exciting, with a preference for practical effects that gives the film a tangible, grounded feel often missing in modern blockbusters.

The comedy hits more often than it misses, with Murphy's impeccable timing and delivery elevating even the most standard jokes. The film's willingness to let Murphy play off his co-stars rather than dominating every scene shows a maturity in approach that serves the story well.

Perhaps most impressively, the film manages to balance its nostalgic elements with new storylines and characters. It pays homage to its predecessors without becoming a slave to them, allowing new viewers to enjoy the film without feeling lost.

Areas for Improvement: Minor Speedbumps

While largely successful, "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" isn't without its flaws. Some of the callbacks to the original trilogy feel forced, particularly a cameo by Bronson Pinchot as Serge that adds little to the plot. These moments, while likely intended to please longtime fans, sometimes interrupt the flow of the new story.

The film's plot, while serviceable, doesn't break new ground in the police procedural genre. More discerning viewers might find the mystery at the heart of the story somewhat predictable.

Additionally, some characters, particularly Taylour Paige's Jane, feel underutilized in the latter half of the film, with her role reduced mainly to reacting to Axel's antics rather than driving the plot forward.

Comparative Analysis: Standing Tall in the Franchise

In the pantheon of legacy sequels, "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" stands as one of the more successful attempts to revive a dormant franchise. While it may not reach the heights of "Top Gun: Maverick" or "Creed," it far surpasses the low bar set by many cash-grab revivals.

Compared to its predecessors in the "Beverly Hills Cop" series, "Axel F" is easily the best since the original. It recaptures the fish-out-of-water charm and anarchic energy that made the first film a hit, while avoiding the bloated excess of the second installment and the creative bankruptcy of the third.

In the broader context of action-comedies, the film holds its own against modern entries in the genre. Its blend of practical stunts, character-driven humor, and emotional depth puts it in league with successful franchises like the recent "Bad Boys" revival.

Target Audience: Nostalgia Seekers and New Recruits

"Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" caters primarily to fans of the original series and those nostalgic for '80s and '90s action comedies. However, its updated sensibilities and the introduction of new characters make it accessible to younger viewers unfamiliar with Axel Foley's previous adventures.

Personal Impact: A Unexpected Delight

As someone who approached this film with cautious optimism at best, I found myself thoroughly won over by "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F." It reminded me of why I fell in love with movies in the first place – the pure joy of watching charismatic performers navigate outlandish situations with wit and style.

The film's ability to balance nostalgia with fresh elements left me feeling both comforted and invigorated. It sparked discussions with friends about the nature of legacy sequels and the evolving landscape of action comedies in Hollywood.

Conclusion: Welcome Back, Axel

"Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" is a triumphant return for one of cinema's most iconic characters. It manages the delicate balancing act of honoring its past while charting a course for potential future installments. Director Mark Molloy and star Eddie Murphy have crafted a film that serves as both a satisfying conclusion to the series (if this is indeed the end) and a potential launching pad for new adventures.

For fans of the original, it's a welcome trip down memory lane. For newcomers, it's an introduction to a character and a world that still have plenty to offer. In a Summer 2024 movie season filled with familiar franchises and reboots, "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" stands out as one of the more pleasant surprises.

As Axel Foley himself might say, "Trust me, this is the real deal." And for once, in the world of legacy sequels, that statement rings true. Whether you're revisiting an old favorite or discovering Axel for the first time, "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" is a ride worth taking.

For more inspiration on personal transformation, check out the Transform Your Life series at That Love Podcast and explore wellness tips at That Blissful Wellness Podcast.

For more movie reviews and cinematic insights, check out these articles:

For more movie reviews, ratings, and discussions, visit these trusted film resources: