Ranking All Beverly Hills Cop Movies by Rotten Tomatoes Scores: An In-Depth Analysis

Ranking All Beverly Hills Cop Movies by Rotten Tomatoes Scores: An In-Depth Analysis

The Beverly Hills Cop series, one of the most iconic action-comedy franchises of the '80s and '90s, has endured the test of time with its unique blend of thrilling chases and sharp humor. Starring Eddie Murphy as Axel Foley, the Detroit detective with a knack for outsmarting criminals and charm that wins over audiences, this franchise has seen significant changes over the years. Rotten Tomatoes, a review aggregator, provides us with scores that allow us to objectively rank these films from worst to best.

5. Beverly Hills Cop III (1994)

Beverly Hills Cop III is widely regarded as the least favorable installment in the series. Directed by John Landis, this film sees Axel Foley embarking on a mission to rescue his boss's kidnapped daughter. Despite the intriguing premise, the film failed to capture the magic of its predecessors. The action scenes were fewer and less engaging, and the comedy less sharp, leading to a lackluster reception from both critics and fans alike. The Rotten Tomatoes score reflects this disappointment, placing it at the bottom of our list.

4. Beverly Hills Cop II (1987)

The second chapter of Axel Foley's adventures in Beverly Hills saw Tony Scott take the director's chair. Beverly Hills Cop II follows Foley as he investigates a series of high-profile crimes tied to an elegant and ruthless villainess. This film retained much of the charm and energy of the original, thanks to Murphy's dynamic performance, fast-paced action, and witty dialogues. However, while it garnered positive reviews and was a commercial hit, it didn't quite reach the stellar heights of the first film, landing it in the middle of our rankings.

3. Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F (2024)

The latest entry, Axel F, marks a triumphant return to form for the franchise. Directed by Mark Molloy and featuring a star-studded cast that includes Taylour Paige, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Judge Reinhold, and John Ashton, this new sequel brings Axel Foley back to the streets of Beverly Hills. Released on July 3, 2024, both in theaters and on Netflix, the movie boasts a runtime of 1 hour and 55 minutes filled with action, comedy, and crime-solving fun. The film was praised for its revitalization of the classic elements that made the original so beloved while adding modern twists and deeper character developments. The chemistry among the cast, particularly between Murphy and Paige, injected fresh energy into the series, which helped it considerably in getting higher approval ratings from both audiences and critics.

2. Beverly Hills Cop (1984)

It's hard to overstate the cultural impact of the original Beverly Hills Cop movie. Directed by Martin Brest, this film not only introduced audiences worldwide to the quick-witted Detroit detective Axel Foley but also set new standards for the action-comedy genre. Murphy's portrayal of Foley was groundbreaking, blending humor, intensity, and street-smart savvy into an unforgettable character. The film’s storyline, about Foley journeying to the affluent world of Beverly Hills to avenge his friend's murder, was a compelling mix of humor and suspense. With a soundtrack that became instantly iconic and unforgettable one-liners, it’s no surprise that this film sits near the top of the Rotten Tomatoes rankings.

1. Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F (2024)

Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F has been celebrated not only for revitalizing the series but for introducing Eddie Murphy to a new generation of fans. Directed by Mark Molloy and featuring a strong cast with Taylour Paige, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Judge Reinhold, and John Ashton, the film saw fresh perspectives and dynamic storylines that resonated well with audiences and critics. Its release on July 3, 2024, marked a significant moment for the fans who had long-awaited Axel Foley’s return. The film succeeded by combining nostalgic elements with contemporary storytelling, making it a standout within the beloved franchise. Its action-packed sequences, clever humor, and remarkable character interplay have earned it the highest rating among the series on Rotten Tomatoes.

Conclusion

As we look back at the Beverly Hills Cop series through the lens of Rotten Tomatoes scores, it's clear to see the evolution of the franchise and its impact on audiences over the years. From the groundbreaking original to the latest rejuvenation of Axel F, Eddie Murphy's portrayal of Axel Foley remains a significant cultural touchstone. Each movie brings its unique flavor to the table, contributing to the beloved status of the series. With Axel F revitalizing interest and setting a new standard for future installments, fans old and new alike can look forward to more thrilling adventures with everyone's favorite Detroit cop.