The 2024 movie schedule marked the return of cinema royalty this past week with the release of Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F. Eddie Murphy’s long-anticipated comeback as Axel Foley became available to Netflix subscribers on July 3. Since then, it has significantly impressed both critics and audiences. Based on my viewing experience, I’m convinced that Netflix should have given Axel F a full theatrical release.
Why Streaming Instead of Theaters?
The ongoing collaboration between Netflix and Paramount, stemming from a licensing deal struck in 2019, explains why Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F went straight to streaming. This agreement granted Netflix distribution rights for the film and even options for future sequels. The latest installment is currently the top movie on the platform in the U.S., affirming the deal’s success. However, certain elements make this film deserving of a more expansive rollout in theaters.
The Cinematic Scope and Action Sequences
From an artistic perspective, Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F boasts grandiose action scenes that would have thrived on the big screen. Moviegoers missed exhilarating sequences such as Axel Foley zooming through Detroit in a snowplow while chasing criminals or his dramatic helicopter escape with Bobby Abbott (Joseph Gordon-Levitt). Mark Molloy’s directorial debut shines brightest through its captivating set pieces that beg for theatrical display.
Eddie Murphy’s Triumphant Return
A major factor that underscores why Axel F should have hit cinemas is Eddie Murphy himself. This marks his return to the iconic role of Axel Foley after three decades, creating a landmark moment for fans and new viewers alike. Joined by familiar faces like Judge Reinhold and John Ashton, their collective performances rekindle the chemistry that made the original films beloved classics.
John Ashton previously mentioned how it bothered him at first to have fans recognizing him for the role, but he came to see it as an ‘honor.’
His sentiments reflect the high regard with which fans hold these characters, making a strong case for why this film ought to be experienced communally in theaters.
The Prestige of a Theatrical Release
Despite Netflix’s effective campaign highlighting Eddie Murphy’s grand return, a theatrical release over the 4th of July weekend could have further elevated Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F. Recent analytics show similar genre films like Bad Boys: Ride or Die, another buddy cop franchise featuring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, performed well at box offices.
Ted Sarandos’ vision aligns appropriately with streaming trends, yet certain culturally significant films deserve silver screen glory where they can fully realize their impact.
The potential future sequels emerging from this film might still see theaters if audience demand continues to rise. For now, fans can enjoy Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F streamed on Netflix, alongside tantalizing revisitations of the franchise’s earlier classics.
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