0
0
Return of Axel Foley
Fans of Beverly Hills Cop’s Axel Foley might notice something missing from Netflix’s sequel to the 80s comedy-action franchise: Eddie Murphy’s iconic laugh. Murphy, a staple in the original Beverly Hills Cop films, recently revealed in an interview with CBR that there will be no familiar laughter from Foley this time, as he has forced himself to stop using what was actually his natural laugh.
Like many other celebrities, Murphy has often found himself at the center of humorous, if somewhat flattering, impersonations. Considering one of Axel Foley’s most recognizable traits— which was in turn Murphy’s own— he explained how he made a conscious effort to change his laugh because he became worried it was what he was known for, rather than his acting. He stated:
“In the 80s, I was like, ‘I don’t want to be famous for my laugh.’ They just made it about the laugh… It was like, ‘Hey, you know, I’m going to stop. Laughing. I forced myself to stop laughing, which is a really unnatural thing, and it was like, ‘I have to stop laughing like that.’ And now I don’t laugh like that anymore.”
Beverly Hills Cop Legacy Continues
Though Murphy might not be laughing as before, he is back in his former role in Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F. Murphy isn’t the only one returning to the film, as franchise veterans Judge Reinhold, John Ashton, Paul Reiser, and Bronson Pinchot are also returning for another round of action comedy. This reunion is expected to bring a wave of nostalgia for fans and is likely to hit the top of the Netflix charts on July 3, regardless of how the reviews turn out.
The original Beverly Hills Cop movies were renowned for their perfect blend of comedy and action, and Eddie Murphy’s performance was a significant part of that success. His natural charisma and comedic timing made Axel Foley a beloved character. The absence of his iconic laugh might feel like a departure for some fans, but Murphy’s return still promises a lot of excitement. The film aims to capture the spirit of the original while bringing something fresh to the table.
Eddie Murphy’s Career Evolution
While Eddie Murphy may have toned down his laughter for several films, he remains one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors. One project that is likely to bring back his old, over-the-top guffaw is not just Shrek 5 but also the long-developing Donkey spinoff project. Murphy recently shared an update on the progress of the two new Shrek projects with Collider:
“We started [Shrek] 4 or [Shrek] 5 months ago. I did [Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F], I recorded the first act, and we’ll do it this year, we’ll finish it. Shrek is coming out, and there’s going to be a Donkey movie. We’re going to do Donkey as well. So we’re doing a Shrek, and we’re doing a Donkey [movie].”
Murphy continued to suggest that Shrek 5 would hit theaters sometime in 2025, which was certainly surprising for many fans. It’s been 14 years since Shrek last appeared on the big screen in Shrek Forever After, and after such a long hiatus, there’s always a question of whether there’s still an audience for another Shrek film. Any such doubts were dispelled with the 2022 release of Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, which received very positive reviews from critics and audiences alike and earned an impressive $485 million at the box office.
A New Chapter for Eddie Murphy
After spending several years in the wilderness, Eddie Murphy seems poised for a career resurgence, beginning with the release of Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F on Netflix on July 3. This film marks a significant moment in Murphy’s career, bringing him back to one of his most iconic roles while also highlighting his evolution as an actor.
Murphy’s decision to change his laugh reflects a broader desire to reinvent himself and avoid being pigeonholed. It shows his commitment to his craft and his willingness to take risks. Fans can look forward to seeing a new side of Axel Foley, one that retains the charm and wit of the original but also brings a fresh perspective.
As Murphy gears up for the release of Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F and the upcoming Shrek projects, it’s clear that he is ready to re-establish himself as a major force in the entertainment industry. His career has had its ups and downs, but his talent and charisma have always shone through. Now, with a mix of nostalgia and new projects on the horizon, Eddie Murphy is set to captivate audiences once again.
Conclusion
The legacy of Beverly Hills Cop is one that blends humor, action, and memorable characters. While the sequel may lack the iconic laughter, it brings back the essence of what made the original films a success. Eddie Murphy’s evolution as an actor and his return to beloved roles indicate an exciting new chapter in his illustrious career. Fans of Axel Foley and Eddie Murphy alike can look forward to a nostalgic yet fresh experience with the upcoming releases.
