Beverly Hills Cop 4: Axel Foley's Return to Form

Eddie Murphy is back as Axel Foley, 40 years after his first outing! Most of the original gang is back too—Taggart, Rosewood, an unrecognizable Jeffrey, and Serge. Having seen Beverly Hills Cop 1 & 2 countless times, I can quote them almost verbatim. The third was largely forgettable and a noticeable drop in quality, so it was with some trepidation that I heard they were finally going to do a fourth installment. Eddie Murphy had repeatedly said over the years he would only do it if the script was right, but still, I always feared they would modernize it too much and miss the magic of the original.

I'm happy to report they got it mostly right! It was just fun getting to see the characters again on screen after so long. Eddie Murphy slips back into Axel with the same sass and recklessness we remember him for, albeit with a little bit of a softer edge. Judge Reinhold and John Ashton haven't done many (if any) projects in the last 20+ years, and they're used sparingly, but the scenes with the three of them together just ooze chemistry. If anything, I'd have loved there to be more! The new additions to the cast do a solid job too: Kevin Bacon never disappoints, but again, the script could've used him more. Joseph Gordon-Levitt does a good job as the straight cop who eventually gets swept up in Axel's plans.

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We also find Axel has a daughter, Jane, who he's estranged from. It's a bit run-of-the-mill and we don't get too much of a backstory, but in truth, it's not what this movie is about. That's more of a side story that gives Axel a bit of an arc during the movie. It's not an overbearing part of the plot and it helps give the movie a little extra heart.

The soundtrack is very well done. It's got all the iconic themes and songs from the original that are just pure nostalgia and play a crucial role in bringing the movie together. Nostalgia was always going to be a big draw for this movie, especially with so much of the original cast back. Many movies can get it wrong by being too heavy-handed with it, but here (like Top Gun: Maverick) I found it to be spot on. There’s enough to put a smile on your face when you spot the throwbacks, but woven seamlessly enough into the story that it doesn't feel forced.

They don't shy away from the fact that 40 years have passed. The style of movies (especially comedies) has changed, for better or worse, but I think they did an admirable job in trying to make a 2024 action comedy feel like one from the 80s, with enough refreshment so it doesn't just feel like a lazy copy yet keeps the charm of the original. It's a really delicate (nigh impossible) balance, but they get much more right than wrong. It's quite a bit better than the 1994 third attempt (Joseph Gordon-Levitt with a cheeky line in reference to it when he first meets Axel), and I'm glad we get to see the trio reunited one last time for some 80s shenanigans!

The plot itself is straightforward but engaging. Axel is drawn back into the mix by an old friend's request, and his investigation leads him through a series of misadventures that are both nostalgic and refreshingly new. The humor, though updated for contemporary audiences, retains the irreverent and sharp-edged wit that characterized the original films. Axel’s interactions with the new generation of cops provide a humorous commentary on how much things have changed—and how much they haven’t.

Murphy's performance is a testament to his enduring star power. He effortlessly steps back into the role, balancing Axel's trademark brashness with moments of surprising vulnerability. The scenes where Axel interacts with his estranged daughter provide a deeper emotional layer, giving the audience a glimpse of a more mature, reflective side of the character. This subplot, while not the central focus, enriches the narrative and adds depth to Axel's character.

Judge Reinhold and John Ashton reprise their roles as Taggart and Rosewood with the same chemistry and comedic timing that made them beloved in the original films. Their characters have aged, but their dynamic remains as entertaining as ever. Kevin Bacon's role, though underutilized, adds a touch of gravitas and charm to the film. His interactions with Murphy are a highlight, showcasing a blend of respect and rivalry that adds an interesting layer to the story.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt, as the straight-laced cop who becomes entangled in Axel's unorthodox methods, brings a fresh energy to the film. His character’s gradual transformation from skeptical officer to willing accomplice is handled well, providing a satisfying arc that complements Axel's journey. The film also features some well-placed cameos and nods to the original, which longtime fans will undoubtedly appreciate.

Visually, the film strikes a balance between the gritty aesthetic of the original and the slicker, more polished look of modern action comedies. The action sequences are well-executed, blending practical effects with CGI in a way that feels seamless and engaging. The direction pays homage to the original's style while incorporating contemporary filmmaking techniques, creating a visually appealing and dynamic experience.

In conclusion, Beverly Hills Cop 4 manages to capture the essence of what made the original films so beloved while updating the formula for a new generation. It’s a film that respects its roots, delivering a dose of nostalgia that feels earned rather than forced. Eddie Murphy, Judge Reinhold, and John Ashton remind us why we loved these characters in the first place, and the new cast members fit in well, adding their own flair to the mix. For fans of the original series, this film is a welcome return to form and a fitting addition to the Beverly Hills Cop legacy. Four stars—because sometimes, it’s great to see old friends back in action.