Beverly Hills Cop 5: The West Coast Syndicate brings back the high-octane action, sharp humor, and gritty street-smart detective work that made the original franchise iconic. When a ruthless criminal cartel begins tightening its grip on the West Coast, the Beverly Hills Police Department has no choice but to call in their most unpredictable — and untouchable — weapon: Axel Foley (Eddie Murphy). Axel’s return to Beverly Hills is more than just a blast from the past; it’s a reckoning for a city that has long forgotten what real law enforcement looks like.

Eddie Murphy is back in full Axel Foley mode — street-smart, quick-witted, and completely unfiltered. His presence breathes new life into the franchise, as Axel’s ability to think on his feet and stir up trouble in the most polished environments makes for a perfect blend of comedy and action. Murphy effortlessly slides into the role that has defined him, bringing a layer of nostalgia while still adding a refreshing burst of energy. Axel hasn’t lost his touch, and if anything, he’s even sharper, able to turn every tense situation into a witty quip or a chaotic (but effective) plan of action.
Judge Reinhold and John Ashton return as Detective Rosewood and Sergeant Taggart, proving that their comedic chemistry with Axel is a timeless element of the series. The duo brings back the old-school charm of their partnership, with Rosewood’s unassuming intelligence and Taggart’s deadpan humor creating a perfect balance with Axel’s unpredictable nature. While the city around them has evolved, their bond remains as strong as ever, offering both laughs and a sense of continuity for long-time fans of the series.

Enter Joseph Gordon-Levitt as the new addition to the team — a young detective with a digital edge and fearless ambition. Bringing precision and tech-savvy to the group, Gordon-Levitt’s character adds a new layer of modernity to the otherwise traditional team. His dynamic with Axel, Rosewood, and Taggart creates a fun generational contrast, where old-school street tactics meet cutting-edge investigative methods. Gordon-Levitt’s fresh energy reinvigorates the team, making him an exciting foil to Axel’s unpredictable methods.
This time, the syndicate Axel is up against doesn’t just operate on the streets; it hides behind glass towers and encrypted networks, making it a more sophisticated and elusive foe. The high-tech, corporate side of crime comes to life in this installment, with sleek office buildings and luxury cars masking the dark underworld beneath. The cat-and-mouse game between Axel and the criminal empire escalates quickly, with the streets of Beverly Hills transformed into a battlefield of smarts and speed.
The film doesn’t shy away from explosive action, and fans can expect plenty of car chases, shootouts, and edge-of-your-seat moments. Axel’s trademark improvisation and chaotic interventions keep things unpredictable, turning every action sequence into something uniquely his own. Whether he’s crashing a high-society gala or infiltrating a high-rise building, Axel Foley remains a one-man wrecking crew, ready to turn the tables on any criminal empire that dares to cross his path.

Visually, The West Coast Syndicate is a perfect blend of the old Beverly Hills aesthetic — glamorous streets, upscale neighborhoods, and sleek vehicles — combined with darker, more dangerous undercurrents of the criminal world. The polished glass and chrome of Beverly Hills serve as a backdrop to the gritty and relentless pursuit of justice that Axel and his team bring to the fight.
In the end, Beverly Hills Cop 5: The West Coast Syndicate offers the best of both worlds: a tribute to the franchise’s roots, with Axel Foley bringing his signature flair, alongside a fresh, modern energy introduced by the new generation of law enforcement. The balance of nostalgia and adrenaline ensures that the film feels both timeless and excitingly new.
⭐ Rating: ★★★★☆ 4.5/5
An action-packed, hilarious continuation that mixes nostalgia with fresh, high-octane thrills.