Yesterday, April 3rd, 2011, Eddie Murphy turned 50 years old. A long departure from his youthful playfulness, Murphy has become a seasoned veteran in comedy, resigned to voice acting and Shrek gigs. Not that he's become any less funny over the years: he will always hold a place in my heart as one of the funniest comedians of all time. Not because he was iconic as a black satirist, and not because he does great impersonations or uses hilarious phrases. Eddie Murphy has become a legend, built on intelligent dialogue and timeless jokes. He's simply a very funny guy.
Some of his best non-standup work can be witnessed in Beverly Hills Cop, the heart and soul of 80's comedy-action police force flicks (some would argue the quintessential movie in that category would be Police Academy, but I'm tempted to disagree...). Eddie Murphy shines and thrives in a scenario filled with characters lacking humor and personality. He is in stark contrast to the Beverly Hills cops, the "bad guys", and even his love interest. He's smarter, funnier, and wittier than any other character in the film, and Murphy manages to even work in a down-to-earth street sense that adds layers of personality unheard of in a comedy such as this.
The story is typical: out-of-place cop trying to expose an unlikely villain, running into trouble from both sides of the law. Although his physical and mental strength are utilized, they are nothing compared to his use of outrageous impressions, from the indignant police chief in the warehouse to the outspoken lover of questionable sexuality in the hotel. It's hilarious and satisfying to see Eddie Murphy work his comedic magic, fulfilling his deceptively simple role and energizing an already amusing script. This is all compounded by big hair, hip clothes, and awesome 80s action music that maybe belongs in a Nintendo game. Regardless, it fits well along with everything else in the film. Beverly Hills Cop is Eddie Murphy's acting masterpiece, a film he was born to star in. It's a classic in its simplicity, and it's timeless in its humor. While not necessarily emotionally spellbinding, it's the best in its class, and that's really saying something.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10
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