The ‘Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.’ brings Harold Faltermeyer’s iconic theme music with a surprising mash up of The Notorious B.I.G.’s ‘Going Back to Cali’
The reviews for Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F are in, and while opinions are mixed, there’s a noticeable tilt towards the positive. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the feedback:
Many critics are celebrating the film’s successful revival of the classic 80s/90s Beverly Hills Cop vibe. Eddie Murphy’s comedic timing and the engaging action sequences are particularly highlighted. The addition of new characters alongside familiar faces is also receiving commendation.
On the flip side, some reviewers argue that the movie lacks the groundbreaking impact of its predecessors, with a plot that feels somewhat predictable.
The nostalgia factor, while strong, is a double-edged sword, with some callbacks to the original films feeling forced.
Overall consensus, Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F is an enjoyable throwback for fans of the original films. Check out some of the reviews below:
IGN Review: Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F
The Theme Song: A Nostalgic Return with a Modern Twist
The trailer for Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F offers a nostalgic trip back to the neon-soaked streets of the ’80s, complete with Harold Faltermeyer’s iconic theme music.
For many, the theme, known by some as the “crazy frog” song, is actually “Axel F,” a track that perfectly encapsulates the essence of the era. Originally composed by German maestro Harold Faltermeyer, this electronic instrumental became a global hit following its debut in the 1984 film
Faltermeyer, using synthesizers like the Roland Jupiter-8 and Moog modular, crafted an unforgettable soundscape. Initially met with skepticism from the film’s producers, it was director Martin Brest’s endorsement that helped propel “Axel F” to its iconic status.
The track also featured on Faltermeyer’s 1988 album Harold F. and even had a music video where Faltermeyer played the synthesizer amidst scenes from the film.
Fast forward to 2024, Eddie Murphy reprises his role as Axel Foley in this latest installment, directed by Mark Molloy. Arriving three decades after Beverly Hills Cop III, the film not only reintroduces beloved characters but also mixes Faltermeyer’s classic theme with The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Going Back to Cali.”
In this new chapter, Murphy’s detective teams up with a new partner, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, as they tackle a mystery involving Axel’s daughter’s life. The film also stars Kevin Bacon, Taylour Paige, Paul Reiser, Bronson Pinchot, and Mark Pelligrino.
Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F is set to be a nostalgic journey with a fresh twist, blending ’80s synths with modern beats.
