Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F is a 2024 American action comedy film directed by Mark Molloy and written by Will Beall, Tom Gormican, and Kevin Etten from a story by Beall. This film serves as the fourth installment in the Beverly Hills Cop film series and is a direct sequel to Beverly Hills Cop III (1994). The legendary Eddie Murphy reprises his iconic role as Axel Foley, and fans will be thrilled to see some familiar faces returning to the franchise. Let’s delve into the cast of Beverly Hills Cop 4 and explore the characters that bring this action-packed comedy to life.
Eddie Murphy as Axel Foley
Eddie Murphy returns to the role that made him a household name. As Axel Foley, Murphy delivers his trademark blend of humor, charm, and street-smart cunning. In this installment, Axel is drawn back to Beverly Hills after his daughter Jane’s and his old partner Billy Rosewood’s lives are threatened. Axel’s journey is filled with action, laughs, and the classic Foley wit that fans have come to love.
Judge Reinhold as Billy Rosewood
Judge Reinhold reprises his role as Billy Rosewood, Axel’s loyal friend and partner. Rosewood’s character has always been the perfect foil to Foley’s antics, providing a balance of sincerity and comic relief. In Beverly Hills Cop 4, Rosewood finds himself in the thick of the action once again, teaming up with Axel to uncover a dangerous conspiracy.
John Ashton as John Taggart
John Ashton returns as John Taggart, another of Axel’s old pals. Taggart’s no-nonsense approach and seasoned experience make him an invaluable ally in Axel’s quest. Ashton’s portrayal of Taggart adds a layer of depth and nostalgia to the film, reminding audiences of the enduring bond between these beloved characters.
Paul Reiser as Jeffrey Friedman
Paul Reiser is back as Jeffrey Friedman, Axel’s old friend. Friedman’s character adds a touch of levity and continuity to the series. Reiser’s comedic timing and rapport with Murphy help to recreate the magic of the earlier films, ensuring that long-time fans feel right at home.
Bronson Pinchot as Serge
Bronson Pinchot reprises his role as Serge, the quirky and eccentric art gallery worker. Serge’s unique personality and humorous interactions with Axel provide some of the film’s most memorable moments. Pinchot’s return is a delightful nod to the franchise’s roots, and his character continues to be a fan favorite.
New Additions to the Cast
Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Bobby Abbott
Joseph Gordon-Levitt joins the cast as Bobby Abbott, Jane Foley’s ex-boyfriend. Abbott is a complex character whose relationship with Jane adds an intriguing dynamic to the plot. Gordon-Levitt’s performance brings depth and intensity to the role, making him a standout addition to the ensemble.
Taylour Paige as Jane Foley
Taylour Paige takes on the role of Jane Foley, Axel’s daughter. Jane’s involvement in the story is central to the film’s narrative, as her life is in danger, prompting Axel’s return to Beverly Hills. Paige’s portrayal of Jane is both strong and relatable, capturing the essence of a modern, independent woman caught in a web of danger and intrigue.
Kevin Bacon as The Antagonist
Kevin Bacon stars as the film’s primary antagonist, bringing his trademark intensity and charisma to the role. Bacon’s character is shrouded in mystery, posing a significant threat to Axel and his team. His performance adds a new level of menace and sophistication to the series, making him a formidable foe for Axel Foley.
Plot Overview
The film’s plot centers around Axel Foley’s return to Beverly Hills after his daughter Jane and his old partner Billy Rosewood’s lives are threatened. Axel teams up with Jane, her ex-boyfriend Bobby Abbott, and his old pals John Taggart and Serge to uncover a conspiracy that puts them all in grave danger. The narrative weaves together action, comedy, and suspense, staying true to the spirit of the original films while introducing fresh elements to captivate a new generation of viewers.
Development and Production
Beverly Hills Cop 4 has been a long time in the making. The project entered development in the mid-1990s under Eddie Murphy’s production company. Over the years, various directors and screenwriters were attached, including the filmmaking duo Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah. However, the project faced multiple issues and underwent development hell before finally coming to fruition.
In April 2022, Mark Molloy was hired to direct, bringing a fresh vision to the beloved franchise. Production began in California in August 2022, with the cast and crew working tirelessly to deliver a film that honors the legacy of Beverly Hills Cop while offering something new and exciting.
Conclusion
The cast of Beverly Hills Cop 4 is a perfect blend of returning favorites and fresh faces. Eddie Murphy, Judge Reinhold, John Ashton, Paul Reiser, and Bronson Pinchot bring back the nostalgia of the original films, while Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Taylour Paige, and Kevin Bacon infuse the series with new energy and excitement. With a compelling plot, dynamic characters, and the signature blend of action and comedy, Beverly Hills Cop 4 is set to be a must-watch film for fans old and new.