The new film “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” celebrates its deep ties to Detroit, weaving a narrative that intertwines the city’s cultural fabric with the storyline. Here’s an exploration of how the movie pays homage to Detroit through its various elements.
To begin with, the movie kicks off with a dramatic heist at Little Caesars Arena during a Detroit Red Wings game. Despite the cinematic portrayal, Eddie Murphy’s character Axel Foley never physically visits Detroit for filming. The scenes inside the arena, including a standoff in the Red Wings’ locker room, were meticulously crafted on sets, capturing the essence of Detroit sports without physically being there.
Foley’s iconic attire includes a revamped Detroit Lions varsity coat, updated for a contemporary look but still reminiscent of his past. The decision to create a new jacket rather than replicate the original from previous films was driven by a desire to keep Foley’s style fresh while maintaining his connection to the Lions. Additionally, he sports a vintage blue Lions sweatshirt sourced online, adding layers of nostalgia to his ensemble.
The movie also pays tribute to Detroit’s vibrant radio scene, featuring WJLB-FM’s longtime host Bushman as the first voice heard in the film. His inclusion reflects the film’s effort to embed authentic Detroit voices within its narrative. Foley further sports a distinctive yellow WLJB T-shirt and dons a shirt adorned with the classic logo of WLLZ-FM, showcasing Detroit’s rich radio history through his wardrobe.
As Foley navigates Detroit’s streets, viewers are treated to a visual tour of iconic landmarks such as the Renaissance Center, the Joe Louis fist sculpture, and local eateries like Lafayette and American Coney Islands. These scenes not only serve as a backdrop but also highlight Detroit’s architectural and culinary diversity, painting a vivid picture of the city’s essence.
The soundtrack of “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” features Bob Seger’s hit “Shakedown,” underscoring Foley’s escapades with a nostalgic homage to Seger’s music career. This choice not only adds depth to the film’s auditory landscape but also nods to Seger’s influence on Detroit’s musical heritage.
In a poignant tribute, the late Gil Hill, a former Detroit Police Department Commander and actor in the original “Beverly Hills Cop,” is honored with a photograph in Paul Reiser’s character’s office. This serves as a respectful nod to Hill’s contribution to the franchise and his lasting impact on Detroit’s cinematic history.
Finally, Foley’s acquisition of a Ford Bronco upon arriving in Beverly Hills humorously underscores his attachment to Detroit, labeling the vehicle as a “Detroit classic.” This playful reference encapsulates Foley’s enduring connection to his hometown, even as he ventures into the glitzy world of Beverly Hills.
In essence, “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” not only delivers on its promise of action and comedy but also intricately weaves Detroit’s cultural tapestry into its narrative fabric. Through visual cues, musical choices, and character nuances, the film pays heartfelt homage to Detroit, celebrating its landmarks, personalities, and enduring spirit.
