In 1984, comedian Eddie Murphy wowed audiences when he stepped off the stand-up comedy stage and onto a film set. The result, “Beverly Hills Cop,” created a box office smash that launched Murphy’s film career. Forty years later, its creators released “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F,” the fourth in a film series that has kept fans coming back for more.
A Star-Studded Affair
In the fourth film, a bevy of stars unites for a storyline that merges today’s up-and-coming stars like Taylour Paige with blockbuster giants like Murphy, Kevin Bacon, and Judge Reinhold. Bacon, known for his dramatic roles, deftly moves into comedy for a turn as Captain Cade Grant. Reinhold’s character, Billy Rosewood, no longer works as a cop. He’s a private investigator now, according to the Internet Movie Database (IMDB).
The film also reunites some of the original actors who created the dearly loved minor characters of the original film, such as Bronson Pinchot as Serge. John Ashton steps in as Chief John Taggart, while Joseph Gordon-Levitt plays Detective Bobby Abbott, and Paul Reiser takes on the character of Deputy Chief Jeffrey Friedman.
The Plot Thickens
Detroit cop Axel Foley has grown up a lot since his initial trip to California. After 30 years as a cop, he didn’t plan on a new trip to Beverly Hills but must protect his daughter, Jane Saunders, played by Paige. His daughter practices law in southern California, where a high-profile case she takes threatens her life. Once he reaches California, Foley turns to his old friends, namely Rosewood, for help. Expect chase scenes, gunfire, and witty banter.
Viewers Say They Loved It
If you missed it in the theater, catch it on Netflix now. Viewers who left reviews on IMDB say it’s laugh-out-loud funny and reminds them of the original. Murphy had said after the third film in the series that he would only come back for a fourth film if the script worked. That happened with the Axel F script.
According to the IMDB reviews, the film provides a surreal experience, homaging the original soundtrack and characters. It “captures the essence of the original,” while adding a new chapter to the Foley story.
Make It a Date
Netflix provides a great date night comedy for a stay-at-home couch cuddle. Pop some popcorn. Grab a blanket. Dim the lights and enjoy the continuation of an epic cop story that began 40 years ago and launched comedic careers.
