Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F - A Blast from the Past

The Beverly Hills Cop franchise, which seemed to have breathed its last in 1994, has been resurrected in the form of a fourth installment, Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, on Netflix. This new movie marks Eddie Murphy’s return as the titular troublemaker, Axel Foley, who receives a call to return home and confront his past.

Eddie Murphy returns as Axel Foley

The film’s emotional undercurrent, which has always been the hallmark of the franchise, grounds Axel’s increasingly outlandish escapades. The movie is an approximation of 80s action-comedies, but with a nod to contemporary anxieties.

Axel’s Life in Detroit

Now living in Detroit, Axel Foley receives a panicked call from his old buddy Billy Rosewood, played by Judge Reinhold, who advises him to return to Hollywood. Axel’s daughter, Jane, from whom he has been estranged for years, has become mixed up with the wrong people.

Axel Foley’s life in Detroit

A Diverting but Uneven Experience

The new Beverly Hills Cop is an uneven experience that doesn’t leave a lasting impression. While it’s diverting, it doesn’t make you want to hurl an Adidas shoe at your screen like some other recent Netflix movies might have.

Axel Foley’s action-packed return

The Verdict

Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F is a surprisingly successful summer tent-pole that turns up the heat. While it may not be a perfect film, it’s a fun ride that’s worth taking.

Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F Poster