If you loved the action-packed, comedic brilliance of 'Beverly Hills Cop' (1984), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 movies and TV shows that capture the same thrilling energy, witty humor, and charismatic lead performances that made Eddie Murphy's iconic role as Axel Foley unforgettable. Whether you're a fan of buddy cop dynamics, fast-paced storytelling, or laugh-out-loud moments, these recommendations will keep you entertained.
48 Hrs. (1982)
Description: 48 Hrs. shares similarities with Beverly Hills Cop in its blend of action and comedy, featuring a mismatched duo of cops (one of whom is a wisecracking outsider) navigating a dangerous criminal underworld. Both films were pivotal in defining the buddy cop genre and showcase charismatic leads (Eddie Murphy in both films) with sharp humor and intense action sequences.
Fact: 48 Hrs. marked Eddie Murphy's film debut, launching his career as a leading man. The film was originally intended for Clint Eastwood and Richard Pryor. Director Walter Hill insisted on realism, leading to genuine tension between Murphy and Nick Nolte on set.
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Lethal Weapon (1987)
Description: Lethal Weapon, like Beverly Hills Cop, is a quintessential buddy cop film that balances high-stakes action with humor. Both films feature a rebellious, street-smart protagonist (Mel Gibson's Martin Riggs and Eddie Murphy's Axel Foley) who clashes with authority but gets the job done. The dynamic between Riggs and Murtaugh mirrors Foley's interactions with the Beverly Hills PD.
Fact: Danny Glover was initially considered for the role of Riggs. The film's success spawned three sequels and a TV series. The iconic suicide scene was almost cut for being too dark.
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Stakeout (1987)
Description: Stakeout shares Beverly Hills Cop's balance of police procedural and romantic comedy elements. Richard Dreyfuss' surveillance expert has a similar wisecracking charm to Axel Foley, and the film's mix of tension and humor follows a comparable rhythm.
Fact: John Badham directed after success with WarGames. The film spawned a sequel, Another Stakeout. Madeleine Stowe's breakout role.
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Die Hard (1988)
Description: While more action-oriented, Die Hard shares Beverly Hills Cop's theme of an outsider cop (John McClane) navigating unfamiliar territory (a high-rise instead of Beverly Hills). Both protagonists use wit and resourcefulness to outsmart criminals, and both films became defining entries in their respective subgenres.
Fact: Bruce Willis was considered a risky choice for the lead. The Nakatomi Plaza is actually Fox Plaza. Alan Rickman's Hans Gruber was his first film role.
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Red Heat (1988)
Description: Red Heat pairs a tough, by-the-book Russian cop (Arnold Schwarzenegger) with a loose-cannon American detective (James Belushi), creating a culture clash reminiscent of Foley's adjustment to Beverly Hills. The film mixes brutal action with comedic moments, much like Beverly Hills Cop.
Fact: First American film to shoot in Moscow's Red Square. Schwarzenegger kept his accent for authenticity. The original script was more serious.
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Tango & Cash (1989)
Description: Tango & Cash features another mismatched cop duo (Sylvester Stallone and Kurt Russell) with contrasting styles, similar to Foley's dynamic with Beverly Hills PD. The film's over-the-top action and playful rivalry between leads mirror Beverly Hills Cop's energetic vibe.
Fact: Stallone and Russell reportedly clashed on set. The prison fight scene took weeks to film. Jack Nicholson was considered for the role of Cash.
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Another 48 Hrs. (1990)
Description: This sequel reunites Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte, doubling down on the formula that made Beverly Hills Cop successful: explosive action paired with Murphy's signature humor. The film's portrayal of an unconventional cop navigating dangerous situations directly parallels Foley's adventures.
Fact: Eddie Murphy's salary jumped from $200,000 to $7 million. Walter Hill returned to direct. The film features more graphic violence than the original.
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The Last Boy Scout (1991)
Description: This film echoes Beverly Hills Cop's combination of hard-boiled detective work and dark humor. Bruce Willis' Joe Hallenbeck is a cynical, wisecracking investigator much like Axel Foley, and the film's blend of violence and comedy follows a similar tone.
Fact: Shane Black sold the script for $
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Bad Boys (1995)
Description: Bad Boys channels Beverly Hills Cop's energy with its blend of explosive action, humor, and charismatic leads (Will Smith and Martin Lawrence). Like Axel Foley, Mike Lowrey is a flashy, rule-bending cop who thrives in high-pressure situations. The film's glossy Miami setting parallels Beverly Hills' affluent backdrop.
Fact: Jon Favreau has a small role as a medic. The film was originally offered to Dana Carvey and Jon Lovitz. Michael Bay's direction established his signature style.
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Rush Hour (1998)
Description: Rush Hour follows the Beverly Hills Cop formula of pairing a fast-talking, rule-breaking detective (Chris Tucker) with a more straight-laced partner (Jackie Chan) in a fish-out-of-water scenario. The film's mix of explosive action and comedic banter is reminiscent of Eddie Murphy's antics in Beverly Hills.
Fact: Chris Tucker ad-libbed most of his lines. Jackie Chan performed his own stunts, including the museum fight scene. The film was originally written for a white actor to pair with Chan.
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