After a 30-year absence, Detective Axel Foley returns to the big screen – or rather, to the living room screen. Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F premiered globally on Netflix on July 3, 2024, with a limited theatrical release on the same date. The film marks the first in the franchise to debut directly on a streaming platform, bypassing traditional cinemas entirely. Eddie Murphy reprises his iconic role, joined by familiar faces and new characters, in a story that brings the fast-talking Detroit detective back to Beverly Hills to protect his estranged daughter.
The fourth installment arrives decades after Beverly Hills Cop III (1994) and carries the weight of nostalgia while attempting to modernize the action-comedy formula. Directed by Mark Molloy and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, the film quickly became one of Netflix’s most-watched titles in July 2024. But how does it stack up against expectations, and what does the future hold for the franchise?
When and where was Beverly Hills Cop 4 released?
Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F was released on July 3, 2024, as a Netflix original film. It also received a limited theatrical release on the same day before becoming a Netflix exclusive worldwide. This distribution strategy marked a significant shift for the franchise, which had previously relied on traditional theatrical windows.
| Release Date | July 3, 2024 (Netflix) |
|---|---|
| Starring | Eddie Murphy, Judge Reinhold, John Ashton |
| Director | Mark Molloy |
| Genre | Action Comedy |
- Return after decades: Eddie Murphy plays Axel Foley for the first time in 30 years.
- Streaming-only premiere: The film skipped a wide theatrical release, landing exclusively on Netflix.
- Mixed critical reception: Critics praised nostalgia but criticized a formulaic plot.
- Strong audience scores: The Rotten Tomatoes audience score sits at 75%, well above the critics’ 66%.
- Sequel potential: Netflix already has a deal in place to produce a fifth film if viewership warrants it.
| Key Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Title | Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F |
| Release Date | July 3, 2024 |
| Streaming Platform | Netflix (exclusive) |
| Director | Mark Molloy |
| Lead Actor | Eddie Murphy (Axel Foley) |
| Returning Cast | Judge Reinhold (Billy Rosewood), John Ashton (John Taggart), Paul Reiser (Jeffrey Friedman) |
| New Cast | Taylour Paige, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Kevin Bacon |
| Running Time | 118 minutes |
| Rotten Tomatoes Score | 65% (critics), 75% (audience) |
| Box Office (Netflix viewership) | Netflix reported 22.4 million views in first week (not theatrical) |
For a more detailed look at the film’s production and release, consult the Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F (2024) – Comprehensive Research.
Who stars in Beverly Hills Cop 4?
Which original cast members returned?
The film brings back several familiar faces from the original trilogy. Judge Reinhold returns as Billy Rosewood, Axel’s former partner in the Beverly Hills Police Department. John Ashton reprises his role as the gruff Sergeant John Taggart in what would become his final film appearance before his passing. Paul Reiser returns as Jeffrey Friedman, and Bronson Pinchot makes a cameo as the art gallery owner Serge, a character fan-favorite from the first two films.
John Ashton’s role in Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F marked the last film of his career before his death. His portrayal of John Taggart was widely praised by fans as a fitting farewell.
Who are the new characters in the cast?
The sequel introduces several new faces. Taylour Paige plays Jane Foley, Axel’s estranged daughter, whose life is threatened and sets the plot in motion. Joseph Gordon-Levitt portrays Detective Bobby Abbott/Tapia, Jane’s ex-boyfriend and a local Beverly Hills detective. Kevin Bacon appears in a key role, though his character is kept under wraps in early marketing. Nasim Pedrad and Mark Pellegrino also join the ensemble. The cast details are confirmed on IMDb – Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.
What do the reviews and box office numbers say about Beverly Hills Cop 4?
What did critics think?
On Rotten Tomatoes – Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F reviews, the film holds a Tomatometer score of 66% based on 199 reviews. The critics’ consensus describes it as a film that “coasts on nostalgia” but marks “a welcome return for Axel Foley.” Reviewers generally agreed that it exceeded low expectations, striking a balance between honoring the original and updating the formula.
How did the audience respond?
Audience reaction was more enthusiastic, with a Popcornmeter score of 75% from over 2,500 ratings. The film became the most-streamed title on Netflix for nearly two weeks after its release. According to Netflix, the film accumulated 22.4 million views in its first week. Box Office Mojo – Netflix viewership data tracks these streaming metrics, reflecting commercial success for the platform even without traditional box office figures.
Netflix had such confidence in Axel F that it pre-arranged a deal for an additional sequel contingent on strong viewership. The film’s performance suggests that Axel Foley may indeed return for a fifth adventure.
Is a Beverly Hills Cop 5 in the works?
What has Eddie Murphy said?
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly in August 2024, Eddie Murphy hinted at the possibility of another sequel. He said, “We’re talking about it. I think there’s a good chance we’ll do another one.” However, no official greenlight has been announced by Netflix or Paramount. The actor’s comments remain the most concrete indication of a fifth film’s potential.
What are Netflix’s plans?
Netflix has not issued a formal statement regarding Beverly Hills Cop 5. The streaming giant confirmed before the release of Axel F that a deal was in place to produce an additional sequel if the film performed well. Given the strong viewer numbers, speculation is that production could begin, but no timeline or cast confirmations have emerged.
As of early 2025, no official confirmation exists for a fifth film. Eddie Murphy’s comments are the strongest signal, but they fall short of an announcement. Fans should treat the sequel as a possibility, not a certainty.
Will there be a physical release of Beverly Hills Cop 4?
Is a DVD or Blu-ray coming?
As of May 2026, no DVD or Blu-ray release date has been announced for Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F. Netflix original films typically do not receive physical media releases, though exceptions exist for major titles. The film remains exclusive to Netflix for streaming. There has been no official word from Netflix regarding any future physical release. For continuous updates, refer to the Beverly Hills Cop 4 Research Summary.
How has the Beverly Hills Cop franchise evolved over time?
- 1984 – Beverly Hills Cop released, starring Eddie Murphy as Axel Foley.
- 1987 – Beverly Hills Cop II hits theaters.
- 1994 – Beverly Hills Cop III is released.
- 2021–2023 – Development of the fourth film is announced; Netflix acquires streaming rights.
- July 3, 2024 – Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F premieres on Netflix.
- August 2024 – Eddie Murphy hints at a possible fifth film.
More information about the franchise’s history can be found on Wikipedia – Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.
What is confirmed and what remains uncertain about Beverly Hills Cop 4?
| Established Information | Unclear Information |
|---|---|
| Film released July 3, 2024 on Netflix | Beverly Hills Cop 5 is not officially confirmed |
| Cast includes Eddie Murphy, Judge Reinhold, John Ashton | No DVD/Blu-ray release has been announced |
| Rotten Tomatoes scores: 66% critics, 75% audience | Specific box office revenue (theatrical) not disclosed |
| Netflix reported 22.4 million views in first week | Future streaming rights beyond Netflix are unknown |
What is the broader context of Beverly Hills Cop 4 in today’s streaming landscape?
Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F arrives at a time when nostalgia-driven sequels dominate streaming platforms. Its exclusive Netflix release allows the film to reach a global audience instantly, but it also means financial success is measured in subscriber retention rather than box office dollars. The return of original characters like Rosewood, Taggart, and Friedman serves as a bridge to the franchise’s legacy, while new characters attempt to attract younger viewers. Critical reception suggests the film leans heavily on nostalgia, with many reviewers noting that the plot is predictable. Audience scores, however, are more favorable, indicating a strong fanbase desire for more Foley adventures.
What are the key sources and quotes about Beverly Hills Cop 4?
“Axel Foley returns to Beverly Hills after his daughter’s life is threatened…”
Netflix synopsis
“Eddie Murphy brings all the heat, the fourth Beverly Hills Cop coasts on nostalgia but marks a welcome return for Axel Foley.”
Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus (paraphrased)
“We’re talking about it. I think there’s a good chance we’ll do another one.”
Eddie Murphy on Beverly Hills Cop 5 (Entertainment Weekly, August 2024)
The official trailer, released on YouTube on May 23, 2024, and a promotional video featuring Crazy Frog (who covered the theme song in 2005) further built anticipation. You can watch the film on Netflix – Watch Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.
What is the final verdict on Beverly Hills Cop 4?
Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F successfully brings Eddie Murphy back to the role that made him a superstar, delivering a dose of nostalgia wrapped in a modern action-comedy package. While critics found the plot formulaic, audiences embraced the return of Axel Foley, driving the film to strong streaming numbers on Netflix. The future of the franchise remains open, with a fifth installment possible but not confirmed. For now, viewers can enjoy the movie exclusively on Netflix, and keep an eye on official announcements for any physical release or sequel news.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Beverly Hills Cop 4 the same as Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F?
Yes. The official title is Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F. It is the fourth film in the franchise.
How long is Beverly Hills Cop 4?
The runtime is 118 minutes (1 hour 58 minutes).
What is the plot of Beverly Hills Cop 4?
Axel Foley returns to Beverly Hills after his daughter’s life is threatened. He teams up with old friends Billy Rosewood and John Taggart to uncover a conspiracy.
Who directed Beverly Hills Cop 4?
Mark Molloy, in his feature film directorial debut.
Can I watch Beverly Hills Cop 4 on other streaming services besides Netflix?
As of early 2025, it is exclusively available on Netflix. No announcements about future availability on other platforms.
Is Beverly Hills Cop 4 appropriate for kids?
Rated R for language, violence, and some drug content. Not suitable for children under 17.
Will there be a fifth Beverly Hills Cop movie?
No official confirmation yet. Eddie Murphy has hinted at discussions, but no greenlight from Netflix or Paramount.
Is Beverly Hills Cop 4 on DVD or Blu-ray?
No DVD or Blu-ray release date has been announced. The film remains a Netflix exclusive.
Rebecca Haines is Managing Editor at DailyCity.co.uk, running the daily news list and covering UK and world stories with a city lens.