The “Beverly Hills Cop” franchise, starring Eddie Murphy, is a seminal series in the action-comedy genre that first hit the screens in the 1980s. The franchise, which currently consists of four films, showcases Murphy in the role of Axel Foley, a street-smart Detroit cop whose unconventional methods and quick wit make him a standout character. Each film blends action, humor, and a touch of drama, making it a memorable and influential series in Hollywood history. Here’s an in-depth look at each movie (with spoilers):
The Debut Movie
Beverly Hills Cop (1984)
Plot Overview:
The original “Beverly Hills Cop” introduces Axel Foley, a brash and talented Detroit detective known for his unorthodox approach to law enforcement. The movie kicks off with Foley conducting an unauthorized sting operation, which leads to a high-speed chase and lands him in trouble with his boss. Despite his boss’s stern warnings, Foley’s dedication and resourcefulness are evident.
The real plot begins when Foley’s childhood friend, Michael Tandino, visits him after being released from prison. Tandino reveals that he has been working as a security guard in Beverly Hills and has come across something big. Tragically, Tandino is murdered right before Foley’s eyes, and this becomes the catalyst for Foley’s journey to Beverly Hills. Determined to find his friend’s killers, Foley takes a “vacation” to California, despite having no jurisdiction there.
Beverly Hills:
In Beverly Hills, Foley’s street-smart tactics and Detroit style clash with the posh, orderly environment of the local police department. He quickly becomes a thorn in the side of the Beverly Hills Police Department, particularly for the by-the-book Lieutenant Andrew Bogomil and his underlings, Detective Billy Rosewood and Sergeant John Taggart. Initially skeptical of Foley, Rosewood and Taggart eventually come to respect his instincts and skills.
Conflict and Resolution:
Foley’s investigation leads him to Victor Maitland, a wealthy and influential art dealer involved in drug smuggling. Foley uses his street smarts and resourcefulness to gather evidence against Maitland, all while evading the Beverly Hills police who are constantly trying to rein him in. With the help of Rosewood and Taggart, Foley orchestrates a daring and dangerous takedown of Maitland and his operation, delivering justice for his friend Tandino.
The Sequel
Beverly Hills Cop II (1987)
Plot Overview:
“Beverly Hills Cop II” reunites Axel Foley with his Beverly Hills counterparts, Rosewood and Taggart. They tackle a new case involving a series of high-profile heists orchestrated by a criminal organization known as the Alphabet Crimes. The movie opens with Foley, now a detective sergeant, working undercover in Detroit. When Lieutenant Bogomil is shot and critically injured while investigating the Alphabet Crimes, Foley rushes to Beverly Hills to assist his friends.
Beverly Hills:
Foley’s arrival in Beverly Hills sees him quickly immersing himself in the case, once again employing his unorthodox methods. Rosewood and Taggart, now more seasoned and confident in their abilities, eagerly team up with Foley. Together, they navigate a series of clues and confrontations that point to the mastermind behind the Alphabet Crimes.
Conflict and Resolution:
The trio uncovers that the crimes are orchestrated by Maxwell Dent, a wealthy businessman, and his lover, Karla Fry. Foley, Rosewood, and Taggart face numerous obstacles, including bureaucratic interference and dangerous encounters with Dent’s henchmen. Foley’s street-smart approach and relentless pursuit of justice lead to a climactic showdown where Dent’s criminal empire is dismantled, and Karla is apprehended. The film ends with Foley once again proving that his unconventional methods are both effective and necessary.
The Trilogy Movie
Beverly Hills Cop III (1994)
Plot Overview:
The third installment, “Beverly Hills Cop III,” takes a slightly different tone, blending action with a more comedic and whimsical setting. The movie begins with Foley participating in a sting operation in Detroit that goes wrong, resulting in the death of his boss, Inspector Todd. The trail of clues leads Foley to a theme park in Los Angeles called Wonder World, owned by the corrupt businessman Ellis DeWald.
Beverly Hills:
In Beverly Hills, Foley reconnects with Rosewood, who is now an officer in charge of the police department’s firearms training unit. Taggart has retired, but his absence is filled by the new character, Jon Flint, who teams up with Foley and Rosewood. The trio delves into the mystery surrounding DeWald and Wonder World, discovering a counterfeit money operation.
Conflict and Resolution:
The investigation is fraught with humorous and dangerous encounters within the theme park, as Foley uses his cunning and streetwise tactics to expose DeWald’s criminal activities. The film features a mix of action set pieces and comedic scenarios, culminating in a final showdown within Wonder World. Foley and his allies successfully bring DeWald to justice, and Foley avenges his boss’s death.
Character Development:
Throughout the series, Axel Foley remains a dynamic character whose street smarts, quick wit, and disregard for bureaucratic constraints consistently set him apart. His ability to adapt and outsmart his opponents while maintaining his moral compass is a central theme. Foley’s relationships with Rosewood and Taggart (and later Flint) evolve from skeptical alliances to genuine friendships and partnerships, highlighting the value of trust and teamwork.
Humor and Action:
The “Beverly Hills Cop” movies masterfully blend humor and action, with Eddie Murphy’s comedic talent at the forefront. Foley’s quick-thinking, wisecracks, and ability to maneuver through various social settings provide much of the comedic relief, while the action sequences ensure a thrilling experience. The films’ balance of these elements set a precedent for the action-comedy genre and influenced numerous subsequent films.
The Fourth Installment
Beverly Hills Cop IV: Axel F
Plot Overview
The fourth installment in the series witnesses Detective Axel Foley back on the beat in Beverly Hills. After his daughter’s life is threatened, she and Foley team up with a new partner and old pals Billy Rosewood and John Taggart to turn up the heat and uncover a conspiracy.
Cultural and Industry Impact:
Eddie Murphy is taking on a role that he originated almost 40 years ago. That is unheard of in Hollywood. It also underscores the African proverb, “Black don’t crack.” Streaming giant produced and released this film on their service. Axel F did not get a theatrical release. Remember, this movie came out around the same time as Bad Boys IV featuring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence. Bad Boys IV received a theatrical release worldwide. With Murphy’s box office success, it feels somewhat shocking that Axel F didn’t get a theatrical release. But, what is Eddie Murphy saying to the industry with this straight to Netflix release? Less risk, higher pay? Less pay, lower risk? What were the financials of this deal? That would really go to underscore how important this movie is to the current industry trends.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The “Beverly Hills Cop” franchise, starring Eddie Murphy as Axel Foley, remains a landmark series in the action-comedy genre. With its blend of humor, action, and memorable characters, the franchise offers a compelling narrative of a street-smart Detroit cop navigating the opulence and rigidity of Beverly Hills. Each film builds on Foley’s character and his unconventional methods. The films showcase his relentless pursuit of justice and his ability to outsmart even the most cunning adversaries.
The success of the “Beverly Hills Cop” franchise was a significant milestone in Eddie Murphy’s career. It solidified his status as a leading actor in Hollywood. The films were also notable for their diverse casts and urban settings. They provided representation at a time when Hollywood was predominantly dominated by less diverse narratives. The franchise’s financial success demonstrated the commercial viability of action-comedy films. And, paved the way for similar movies in the genre.
From its impact on Eddie Murphy’s career to its influence on the film industry, “Beverly Hills Cop” continues to be celebrated for its unique blend of action and comedy. The franchise not only entertained audiences but also set new standards for the genre, making Axel Foley a beloved and iconic character in cinema history.
We’d like to see cinco in the theaters though. Let’s make that happen, Netflix.
