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Many reviews highlighted the nostalgic appeal of Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, with Murphy reprising his iconic role as Detective Axel Foley, 40 years after the original film broke box office records.
USA Today gave it three stars, calling it “a true comfort-food throwback”.
However, The Guardian rated it two stars, citing a lack of energy in the formulaic reunion.
The original film made Murphy a superstar and spawned two sequels and a hit soundtrack.
In the new Netflix release, Foley returns to Beverly Hills, where his estranged daughter’s life is in danger.
Clarisse Loughrey of The Independent also gave it two stars, stating: “The film pokes fun at the franchise’s infamously bad third entry but brings nothing new.”
She added: “With a $150m budget, it follows Bad Boys: Ride or Die, which has matured more successfully.”
USA Today’s Brian Truitt was more enthusiastic, calling it “a confident fourth outing” with classic elements like retro tunes and the iconic Detroit Lions jacket.
He noted its old-school feel despite the modern streaming release.
Glenn Whipp of the LA Times shared this positive view, saying, “everyone involved understood the assignment” and recreated the original film.
He added: “Murphy is effective, even if the tone has shifted to nostalgic cheer. The heat is gone.”
Despite possible perceptions of a cash grab, Murphy shows affection for the character.
Judge Reinhold and John Ashton return with Murphy for this fourth installment.
The film also stars Taylour Paige as Foley’s daughter Jane and Joseph Gordon-Levitt as his partner, detective Bobby Abbott.
Robert Daniels of The New York Times criticized the film, noting Murphy’s struggle to revive the franchise.
Daniels wrote: “Murphy returns with familiar elements, but the film is a lackluster retread.”
Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian agreed, saying: “The film feels tired and formulaic.”
He added: “Murphy’s comedy energy feels stale, and he can’t play the subversive anarchist as before.”
Murphy, now 63, reprises the role that launched his career after 30 years, with a string of films like The Nutty Professor, Shrek, and Norbit.
Robbie Collin of The Telegraph gave a four-star review, praising the film’s 80s-style comedy and Murphy’s lively performance.
The Hollywood trade publications were generally positive, with Deadline’s Pete Hammond calling it “great fun” and a missed theatrical opportunity.
Variety’s Owen Gleiberman noted the film “might tickle your nostalgia bone” but pointed out the countless action comedies since the original.
Ultimately, David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter concluded that while the film will “satisfy diehard fans,” its lack of fresh perspective and adherence to the original formula make it feel outdated.