Eddie Murphy has returned to his iconic role as Axel Foley in ‘Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F’, a new Netflix sequel that comes nearly 40 years after the original film’s release. The movie, which began streaming on July 2, 2024, follows Foley as he returns to Beverly Hills to protect his estranged daughter Jane (played by Taylour Paige) and investigate a case of police corruption.Critics and audiences have offered mixed reactions to the film. Some praise Murphy’s enduring charisma and the movie’s nostalgic appeal. The Arizona Republic noted that Murphy reflects on the franchise’s 40-year popularity, discussing his approach to playing Axel Foley, including his iconic Detroit Lions jacket. Collider described the film as a ‘fun summer blockbuster that recaptures the magic of the original movies’.However, other reviewers have criticized the film for its reliance on familiar tropes and lack of originality. The Chicago Sun-Times called it a ‘passable, comfort-viewing, nostalgia-tinged entertainment’ but lamented that it feels like a rehash of plot elements from the first two films. Entertainment Weekly was more critical, describing the movie as a ‘missed opportunity’ with a ‘silly and preposterous’ plot.The film reunites Murphy with original cast members Judge Reinhold and John Ashton, while also introducing new faces like Joseph Gordon-Levitt. The soundtrack features remastered versions of classic songs from the original trilogy, including the iconic ‘Axel F’ theme.Despite mixed reviews, the film’s release has sparked discussions about a potential fifth installment in the franchise. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer and Murphy have confirmed that plans are being developed, but any future sequel will depend on the success of ‘Axel F’.As the franchise attempts to bridge nostalgia with contemporary audiences, ‘Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F’ serves as a test of the enduring appeal of Axel Foley and Eddie Murphy’s star power in the streaming era.
Key points
- Eddie Murphy returns as Axel Foley in ‘Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F’, a Netflix sequel released 40 years after the original.
- The film receives mixed reviews, with praise for Murphy’s performance but criticism for its reliance on nostalgia and lack of originality.
- The movie’s reception may determine the future of the franchise, with talks of a potential fifth installment.
Contradictions👾While some reviews describe the film as entertaining and nostalgic, others criticize it as uninspired and lacking creativity, showing a divide in critical reception.
