Reviewing Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F | Eddie Murphy Returns as Axel Foley

Nearly 40 years after Beverly Hills Cop helped turn Eddie Murphy into one of the biggest movie stars of the 1980s, Axel Foley is finally back. This week on the Stuck in the ’80s Podcast, Steve and Brad review Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, the Netflix sequel that reunites audiences with the wisecracking Detroit detective and many familiar faces from one of the defining action-comedy franchises of the MTV era.

The episode explores whether Eddie Murphy still has the fast-talking charisma and comedic timing that made Axel Foley one of the most beloved movie characters of the 1980s. Along the way, Steve and Brad revisit the legacy of the original Beverly Hills Cop trilogy, including the unforgettable synth-heavy soundtrack, fish-out-of-water comedy and action-movie swagger that helped define blockbuster entertainment during the VHS and MTV years.

The conversation also dives into the challenge of reviving classic ’80s franchises decades later and whether Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F successfully balances nostalgia with modern filmmaking. Steve and Brad compare the new movie to other recent legacy sequels while discussing whether Murphy rebounds after the disappointing reception to Coming 2 America.

Along the way, the gang reflects on the larger cultural impact of Eddie Murphy during the 1980s — from stand-up comedy and Saturday Night Live to blockbuster movies that dominated theaters, cable TV and VHS rentals for years afterward. If you love ’80s action-comedies, Eddie Murphy nostalgia, classic movie franchises and revisiting the pop culture icons of the MTV generation, this episode belongs in your playlist.

The Stuck in the ’80s Podcast has spent nearly 20 years celebrating the music, movies, television and pop culture of the greatest decade ever. Support the show on Patreon for bonus episodes, exclusive livestream hangouts, behind-the-scenes content and merch for longtime listeners.

And don’t forget: Spearsy and Brad will once again be part of The 80s Cruise, the ultimate floating celebration of ’80s music and nostalgia. Use promo code STUCK when booking your cabin to receive up to $250 in onboard cabin credit while sailing with fellow Gen X fans and enjoying performances and appearances from many of the decade’s biggest artists. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.