Sequel Success: Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F Review

Crafting a successful sequel to a classic film from the ’80s or ’90s can be a tricky endeavor. Many miss the mark, but Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F is not one of them. This sequel manages to authentically continue the story of the original trilogy, giving fans a vintage Eddie Murphy experience complete with a throwback soundtrack.

When Axel Foley’s daughter, a defense attorney, faces threats because of a case she’s handling, Axel F finds himself back on the streets of Beverly Hills. The storyline pits Foley against corrupt cops, a classic setup that sets it apart from the original trilogy’s themes of taking down drug smugglers and counterfeiters. While there are nods to the past, like Foley cruising through Detroit in his iconic blue Chevy Nova, the movie doesn’t feel like a mere rehash.

In Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, Eddie Murphy slips back into the role of Axel Foley effortlessly. While not as outstanding as in his recent performance in “Dolemite Is My Name,” Murphy captures Foley’s essence perfectly. The character has aged since the last century, becoming a wiser and somewhat wearier version of the street-smart detective fans love.

The returning characters from the original trilogy play mostly modest roles but make logical appearances. Characters like Jeffrey Friedman, Billy Rosewood, and John Taggart are reintroduced in ways that make sense in the storyline. Bronson Pinchot’s return as Serge is a delightful highlight.

New characters like Detective Bobby Abbott, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Foley’s daughter, Jane, portrayed by Taylour Paige, bring fresh dynamics to the story. While the action in Axel F may seem conventional compared to other blockbuster films, director Mark Molloy successfully captures the essence of the ’80s and ’90s predecessors without straying too far into modern tropes.

Molloy injects some thrilling moments, like a heart-pounding helicopter chase, while keeping the characters grounded in their fear and reactions. The retro synth-laden score by Lorne Balfe adds to the nostalgic feel of the film, reminiscent of the original Beverly Hills Cop soundtracks.

Overall, Axel F stays true to its roots while delivering an entertaining and engaging sequel that fans of the original trilogy will appreciate.