Movie Review – Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.

Eddie Murphy returns to the role of Axel Foley, reminding us why he remains a beloved character in cinematic history. He embodies the charm and determination that fans cherished in “Beverly Hills Cop 2,” showcasing maturity while still holding onto his signature stubbornness. The return of Judge Reinhold, John Ashton and Paul Reiser as Axel’s trusted allies – Rosewood, Taggart, and Jeffrey – adds an additional layer of humor and emotional resonance to the story. Their shared experiences with Axel have forged a deep bond, portraying them as not just colleagues, but as brothers who support each other through thick and thin. This dynamic enriches the narrative and elevates the overall experience.

I appreciated the action scenes and found the dialogue surprisingly engaging; it was much better than I initially expected. The cameos from recognizable faces added a nice touch, and the introduction of new characters played by Kevin Bacon, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Taylour Paige contributed positively to the story. However, there are a few aspects of the film that I believe could be improved.

I feel that the film’s use of needle drops, specifically Shakedown and The Heat is On, occurring within such a short time frame – just 15 minutes apart – might have benefitted from being spaced out. This adjustment could enhance the overall pacing and impact of the soundtrack. Additionally, the ending seems a bit rushed, which might detract from the tension in the final action scene. A more gradual buildup could create a more satisfying climax.

Overall, this legacy sequel is a strong addition to a franchise that many fans appreciate. It’s refreshing to see Eddie Murphy back in a role that diverges from family-friendly films. After enjoying the last two Bad Boys movies, I believe there’s potential for at least two more BHC films. If they continue to introduce new characters and develop engaging plots while increasing the action intensity with each installment, it could really elevate the series.

THIS MOVIE SHOULD HAVE BEEN RELEASED IN THEATERS!

I give Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F 3 stars out of 4 stars.

Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F is available to watch on Netflix. It does not have a Blu-Ray/DVD release date yet.