Netflix's "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" directed by Mark Malloy brings back the much-adored Axel Foley, played by Eddie Murphy. For fans of the original trilogy, this movie is a nostalgic journey that blends the charm of the 80s with modern cinematic techniques. This film, executive produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, understands what made the original iconic and strives to recreate that magic for a new generation while paying homage to the past.
Key Takeaways:
Nostalgic Return: The film captures the essence of the original "Beverly Hills Cop," reuniting the core trio and blending iconic soundtracks with contemporary twists.
Aged Characters: The movie addresses the protagonists' ages, reflecting on their years of service while keeping their charm and humor intact.
Unexpected Cameos: A surprising cameo from another Netflix property provides a delightful Easter egg for dedicated fans.
Netflix has managed to successfully resurrected the core elements that made the first two movies beloved fan favorites. The chemistry and the magic of this franchise relies solely on one Eddie Murphy, Judge Reinhold, John Ashton. The importance of keeping the original trio at the heart of the story appear to be the priority while focusing on newer relationships around Axel.
Capturing the Essence of "Beverly Hills Cop"
The Nostalgic Vibe
From the outset, "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" immerses viewers in an atmosphere reminiscent of the original films. Immediately when this movie starts, you are going to feel like you were watching Beverly Hills Cop part one. The film heavily leans into the 80s style of music and cinematography, transporting fans back to a time when action and comedy melded seamlessly.
A significant portion of the film utilizes the classic soundtracks that fans have come to associate with the franchise. They also understand the magic of this movie, of this franchise relies on… the music that we grown to know and love within this series. The soundtrack is a blend of nostalgic hits and modern reinterpretations, including a notable remix by Lil Nas X, giving the film a contemporary edge while retaining its classic feel.
Addressing the Passage of Time
One of the critical aspects of the film is its honest portrayal of the characters' age. They're old… but they lean into it. They let us know that they are aware of who these guys are, where they are in this movie, and they don't try to pretend that they're not. This self-awareness allows the film to acknowledge the passing of 40 years since the original movie without losing the essence of its characters.
The script cleverly weaves explanations about their prolonged careers and what they've been up to during this interval. The why is Axel still a detective when he's been on the force for over, you know, 40 years? And that gets addressed. This approach allows viewers to reconnect with Axel and his partners on a deeper level, understanding their journey and feeling a sense of continuity despite the long hiatus.
Introducing New Characters and Dynamics
"Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" introduces new characters that add fresh dynamics to the story while keeping the core trio at its center. We have Kevin Bacon… the sole villain of this story. And then we get an introduction from Taylor Page, who plays Axel Foley's daughter. This shifts from the unused storyline you may have previously seen in an unreleased TV pilot which originally envisioned Axel with a son. The new daughter dynamic breathes new life into the narrative and adds layers to Axel's character as a father.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt's character serves as a sidekick to Axel throughout the film, representing a new generation engaging with Axel’s seasoned expertise. This blend of old and new characters set in a modern time, enriches the storyline, making it accessible to both longtime fans and newcomers.
The Impact of the Franchise's Evolution
Balancing Humor and Action
While the characters may have aged, their comedic timing and chemistry remain intact. The humor hits home without appearing forced or out of place given the characters' ages. With nods back to familiar lines and catch phrases, It resonates with fans who appreciate the series' blend of humor and action that Eddie Murphy famously epitomizes.
Cross-Property Integration
A surprising element in "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" is the integration of a character from another Netflix series. I have to note, and it is not from the Beverly Hills Cop universe… it is from another universe. For another property that was announced is on its way to Netflix. This unexpected crossover adds an hilarious yet brief layer to the viewing experience and serves as a strategic move by Netflix to cross-promote its properties. It indicates Netflix's intent to promote a more of its original content, enriching the viewer's experience by subtly merging different fandoms.
In sum, "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" is a masterful blend of nostalgia and modernity, honoring its roots while introducing fresh elements that breathe new life into the beloved franchise. The film acknowledges the passage of time, integrates new characters, and surprises the audience with unexpected crossovers. For fans who have followed Axel Foley's journey from the beginning, this film is a heartfelt nod to the legacy of "Beverly Hills Cop."
Eddie Murphy's return as Axel Foley, coupled with the inclusion of Judge Reinhold and John Ashton, creates a sense of familiarity that fans will cherish. There are a lot of nods to the original, ensuring that long-time fans feel right at home. The film’s music, a quintessential part of its identity, bridges the gap between the past and the present, epitomizing Netflix's strategy to honor the old while embracing the new.
"Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" is not just a sequel; it is a tribute to a bygone era of cinema, revitalized for today’s audience. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a new viewer, this film promises an engaging experience filled with laughs, action, and a touch of nostalgia that will leave you eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Axel Foley's adventures.
See it on Netflix July 3rd!
For a more visual review check this out: