Beverly Hills Cop: The Golden State (2026) – A Review
After decades of iconic laughter and thrilling escapades, Axel Foley is back in Beverly Hills Cop: The Golden State, a film that honors the beloved franchise while diving headfirst into the complexities of the modern world. The legacy of this series, known for its high-octane action and unapologetic humor, continues to shine through in the 2026 installment, but with a sleek new twist. With the return of Eddie Murphy in the lead, this movie presents an intriguing blend of nostalgia and innovation.
The Return of Axel Foley
It’s hard to imagine Beverly Hills without Axel Foley, the wisecracking Detroit detective who has always danced on the fine line between chaos and brilliance. Eddie Murphy reprises his role as Foley, a man whose wit is sharper than his signature leather jacket. In The Golden State, Axel is more than just a fish out of water—he’s been fully submerged in the world of 90210. But while the city’s glitz and glamour seem to be his new playground, the real treasure lies in the dark corners of Beverly Hills, where crime still lurks.
Murphy brings the same energy to the role that made him an international sensation in the ’80s, but now there’s a level of sophistication to his portrayal. Age has tempered Axel’s reckless abandon, but not his sense of humor or his innate ability to unravel even the most convoluted schemes. The beauty of Murphy’s performance lies in his ability to make every situation, no matter how perilous, seem like an opportunity for a punchline.
A New Generation of Crime Fighters
The heart of The Golden State beats not only with the familiar antics of Axel but also with the introduction of a new breed of crime-fighter. Taylour Paige returns as Jane Saunders, a character that has evolved far beyond the simple damsel in distress. Now a high-powered defense attorney, Jane is a force to be reckoned with. Her sharp intellect and impeccable style are matched only by her loyalty to Axel, her father’s legacy, and her unflinching ability to handle the city’s most dangerous criminals with lethal elegance.
Alongside her is Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Bobby Abbott, a tech-savvy, tactical genius who brings a refreshing, modern edge to the team. Abbott’s calm demeanor and sophisticated approach to criminal investigations provide a perfect contrast to Axel’s spontaneous and often reckless methods. The chemistry between Paige and Gordon-Levitt adds depth to the film, showing that while Axel may still be the star, his new allies are more than capable of stealing the spotlight.
The Plot: High-Stakes Cyber Crime and Classic Action
When a high-tech cyber-heist threatens the city’s elite, Axel and his team are drawn into a conspiracy that reaches the highest echelons of Hollywood’s glittering world. As the investigation unfolds, The Golden State moves through high-speed chases in vintage Ferraris, neon-lit standoffs, and the kind of larger-than-life confrontations that the franchise is known for. But this isn’t just a return to familiar territory—it’s a film that breathes new life into the franchise by updating the stakes for a modern audience.
The action sequences are a feast for the eyes. From explosive shootouts to intricate heists, the film delivers the kind of thrills fans expect from a Beverly Hills Cop movie. The high-speed chases, especially, are filmed with such care and intensity that it’s impossible not to feel the rush of adrenaline alongside the characters. There’s a fluidity to the action that mirrors the fast-paced nature of the digital world the film explores. The city of Beverly Hills itself becomes a character, its sleek streets and towering skyscrapers serving as the perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama.
A Stylish and Cinematic Experience
The Golden State is not just about action—it’s also a visual triumph. The cinematography is crisp and stylish, capturing the essence of both modern Los Angeles and the glamorous aura of Beverly Hills. There’s a deliberate effort to blend the classic 1980s aesthetic of the original film with the sleek, tech-driven world of today. The result is a film that feels both timeless and contemporary, appealing to both long-time fans and new viewers.
One of the film’s strongest elements is its ability to balance tension and humor. There’s a perfect synergy between the action and the comedy that made the original series a cultural touchstone. Axel’s chaotic yet brilliant approach to every situation remains the film’s beating heart, but the stakes are higher, and the humor, sharper.
Conclusion: A Timeless Legacy, Revitalized
Beverly Hills Cop: The Golden State succeeds not just as a continuation of a beloved franchise, but as a modern reimagining that embraces change while staying true to the core of what made the original films so successful. Eddie Murphy once again proves that Axel Foley is a character for the ages, and his return is a celebration of both the actor’s comedic genius and the enduring appeal of the franchise.
The Golden State captures the spirit of Beverly Hills—a city as glamorous as it is dangerous—while also exploring the impact of technology on crime and justice. It’s an exhilarating ride full of laughter, thrills, and heart. The film effortlessly bridges the gap between generations, providing something for both long-time fans and newcomers to enjoy.
