26 November 2025
Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F - 2024
431 Minutes
4
Get ready to dive into the world of buddy cop films with the Beverly Hills Cop series, watched in chronological order. From Axel Foley's first adventure in Los Angeles to his latest Netflix escapade, this marathon promises action, comedy, and nostalgia.
Set the scene: pop some popcorn, dim the lights, and let the iconic soundtrack play. "The Heat Is On" as we embark on a journey with Axel Foley, the quick-witted detective from the Detroit Police Department. He's back to stir up the streets of Beverly Hills. Before you jump into his newest adventure, it's best to experience the entire Beverly Hills Cop saga in order. This series, from its classic 1980s roots to the anticipated Netflix release, Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, is a treasure trove for fans of buddy cop action comedies. Unsure where to begin? We've got you covered.
431 Minutes 4 Movies
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The original. This film catapulted Eddie Murphy from stand-up fame to international movie stardom. In Beverly Hills Cop, we meet Axel Foley, a savvy detective from Detroit who heads to Beverly Hills without official permission to investigate a friend's murder. What ensues is a legendary clash between Detroit's raw energy and the polished, sun-drenched world of the Beverly Hills Police Department. Director Martin Brest masterfully blends action and comedy as Axel navigates the system with charm, audacity, and improvisation. And who could forget the unforgettable soundtrack featuring "Axel F" and "The Heat Is On"?
Grab your sunglasses for this stylish sequel directed by Tony Scott. Beverly Hills Cop II sees Axel return to LA to help a friend in peril. This time, the stakes are higher, the action more intense, and the explosions bigger—classic 1980s sequel vibes. Despite the sometimes frenetic pace, the chemistry between Axel, Billy Rosewood (Judge Reinhold), and John Taggart (John Ashton) shines through. The buddy cop dynamic deepens, playing off the contrast between Axel's chaotic style and Beverly Hills' orderly, AMMO-like approach. It's flashy, over-the-top, and perfect for a movie night.
Let's be honest: Beverly Hills Cop III is the oddball of the series. Directed by John Landis, it shifts towards satire with less emphasis on laugh-out-loud action. Axel returns to Beverly Hills, this time investigating a case that leads him to Wonder World—a mix of Disneyland and a secret agent hub. While it lacks the magic of its predecessors, it offers enough moments to warrant a watch, especially if you're following Axel Foley's character arc. Plus, it delivers nostalgia with its '90s styling and unexpected cameos. Don't skip it if you're serious about this marathon.
Fast forward to today: Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F marks Eddie Murphy's triumphant return as Axel, and it feels like he never left. With Mark Molloy directing and Jerry Bruckheimer producing, this Netflix release captures everything you want in a 2020s revival. The film builds on its predecessors, featuring nods to earlier installments, a new generation of cops, and a Detroit-meets-LA story that honors the franchise's legacy. The AMMO unit, Billy Rosewood's return, and the blend of old-school and tech-savvy policing make this a fitting finale to your binge. You won't want to be the only one in your friend group who hasn't seen it.
The Beverly Hills Cop series is more than nostalgia—it's a masterclass in blending action and humor. This franchise set the standard for buddy cop action comedies, with Eddie Murphy's Axel Foley reigning as the genre's king. From the synth-heavy soundtrack to the vibrant LA vs. Detroit backdrop, and from the directing styles of Martin Brest, Tony Scott, and John Landis to Axel F's fresh approach, each film offers a unique glimpse into the same world. Whether you're in it for the iconic one-liners, the '80s-style shootouts, or to impress your friends with your perfect viewing order, this is your moment.
Prepare your playlist, starting with "Axel F," and strategically distribute your snacks. Watch Parts 1 and 2 back-to-back with a short break in between. Part 3 is your chance to provide nostalgic commentary ("Was this really 1994?"), and save Axel F for the end when you're ready for a modern reboot with a familiar face. Bonus points if you find the old Beverly Hills Cop video game for the full experience.
Whether you're a diehard fan or new to the franchise, watching in chronological order is the best way to experience Axel Foley's evolution and the Beverly Hills Police Department's journey. From the raw energy of the '80s to the sleek Netflix style of today, this marathon delivers action, humor, flair, and a lead character who never loses his cool. So put on your tracksuit, gather your viewing buddy, and start with Beverly Hills Cop (1984). Axel Foley awaits.