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Dome Pondering Movie Review: Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F

What is it about?

Axel Foley returns to Beverly Hills after his daughter's life is threatened and works with his old pals to help solve the issue. 

Who is in it?

Eddie Murphy - Axel Foley

Joseph Gordon-Levitt - Detective Bobby Abbott

Taylour Paige - Jane Saunders

Favorite Scene:

It was cheesy but so nostalgic. I loved it when Serge returned as they "looked" at the house. 

Favorite Quote:

"G*d, I Missed You, Axel"

Review:

I had A LOT of reservations once I heard that another installment of Beverly Hills Cops was on deck. After all, I love the first two installments, and the third did enough damage to the series that trying to get this franchise back on rail for more felt like a tough climb. 

Also, this era of reboots, remakes, and rehashes rarely hit the target. Just see "Coming 2 America". The point is: that some classics just need to be left alone. 

However, Axel F very much surprised me. Maybe it was the low expectations (I doubt it), but I enjoyed everything about the film. My biggest takeaway was that it was "well done". A nod to the overall flavor of the series, creative ways to return old faces and characters, and all of the essence of Axel Foley mixed in, including some classic lines tying it together nicely. Ditto for the soundtrack which was a nice blend of the classic tunes from the old movies, the signature "Axel F" theme, and some newer tracks. 

And yes, the plot was simple enough - just like the previous ones. BHC was never a thriller. 

From the opening chase scene causing havoc across Detroit to the very last line of "Trust me", Beverly Hills Cops: Axel F did exactly what it needed to do - surpass BHC III, and set the tone for another installment, which I understand is already in the works. 

I felt like a kid again watching this, and the Axel Foley character (along with others) was nicely brought to 2024 with dignity. And yes, I found it genuinely funny. Having Rosewood, Taggart, and Foley back together one more time was nice, and it sets up Gordon-Levitt as Bobby Abbott as a nice partner for the future. 

I can't believe I'm saying this - I'm looking forward to BHC 5, or whatever it will be called. Well done. 

I echo Rosewood in the classic chase scene - I missed you, Axel! 

Grade: 3.75

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