“Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” is a surprising summer must-see that transcends the expectations set by its trailers. Eddie Murphy returns as the iconic Axel Foley, delivering a performance that blends action, humor, and unexpected emotional depth. While the promotional clips emphasized the film’s comedic and action-packed elements, they failed to capture the touching father-daughter storyline and themes of redemption and reconciliation that form the movie’s core.
The film begins with Foley back in Detroit once again causing more chaos than the heist he’s trying to thwart. Here, we see Paul Reiser reprising his role, now as the captain of the Detroit Police Department. His character’s retirement sets the stage for Axel’s journey to reconnect with his estranged daughter, Jane, played by Taylour Paige. Despite a somewhat contrived setup, the narrative gains traction when Judge Reinhold’s Billy Rosewood, another familiar face, alerts Axel to the trouble Jane is in.
What stands out in “Axel F” is the authentic portrayal of the strained father-daughter relationship. Taylour Paige shines as Jane, holding her own opposite Murphy. Their interactions feel genuine, avoiding the pitfalls of melodrama or forced sentimentality. The screenplay, while peppered with humor and action, never loses sight of this emotional anchor, making the film resonate on a deeper level than its predecessors.
One of the film’s strengths is its commitment to character-driven storytelling. The chemistry between Murphy, Reinhold, and John Ashton as Sgt. John Taggart remains as compelling and natural as ever, providing a nostalgic link to the original trilogy. This continuity is vital, considering it’s been 30 years since “Beverly Hills Cop III.” The integration of new characters, such as Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s Detective Bobby Abbott, is less successful, with some roles feeling interchangeable and less impactful on the overall narrative.
The movie’s authenticity extends to its dialogue and character interactions. Instead of relying solely on over-the-top scenarios, the film opts for more plausible pacing, comedy, and connected moments. This approach grounds the story, making the audience invested in the characters’ journeys. Eddie Murphy, known for his ability to elevate his co-stars, brings out the best in the ensemble cast, ensuring that every scene flows naturally and contributes to the story’s progression.
Despite its many strengths, “Axel F” is not without its flaws. The unnecessary helicopter scene falls flat and feels like the world’s slowest, most chaotic police chase. This sequence, while intended to provide high-stakes excitement, detracts from the film’s otherwise well-paced action. Nevertheless, the camaraderie and humor between the main characters manage to salvage the weaker moments, maintaining the film’s overall entertainment value.
“Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” may not be the franchise’s best installment, but it is far from the worst. It successfully revives the beloved series with a fresh, more emotionally charged storyline while staying true to its roots. Eddie Murphy’s performance, coupled with strong supporting roles from Taylour Paige and the returning cast, ensures that this film stands on its own merit. For fans of the series and newcomers alike, “Axel F” offers a delightful blend of action, comedy, and heartfelt moments, making it a must-watch for the summer.