Beverly Hills Cop

 PARAMOUNT has released the Beverly Hills Cop Series in a boxed set and individually.  The first film, the best of all three, was directed by Martin Brest. Brest’s ability to delve into characters was displayed in his first film, “GOING IN STYLE” and his sensibilities helped in making “BEVERLY HILLS COP” a much sweeter cop/action/comedy than it would have been in anyone else’s hands.  Murphy stars as Axel Foley, a street-wise Detroit cop whom takes off to LA, attempting to solve the murder of a good friend.  The action in the film is pretty tame by today’s standards, and even the initial police chase at the beginning feels predictable all the way through.  Still, Brest’s direction and Murphy’s pleasant disposition make the character development of the film compensate for lulls in the film’s plot.  A simple shot of Murphy just laughing and having a good time by himself, reacting to the shock factor of some girls in downtown LA, is just one example of the underlying warm-heartedness of the film.  That’s not to say it’s not violent or profane, as it’s rated “R”, but it plays more like a PG movie compared to modern “R”s.

 PARAMOUNT has provided a sharp looking transfer for the dvd, but it still suffers from grain in spots.  The 1.85:1 aspect ratio is intact with 16:9 enhancement.  Color values are fine.  While they’re not extremely vibrant, they are stable and consistent throughout.  Fleshtones appear natural.  Contrast is excellent, with terrific blacks and grays, important in many of the darker scenes throughout the film.

 PARAMOUNT has remixed the soundtrack for Dolby Digital 5.1 sound.  For the most part, the film still feels monaural, with the majority of the film playing through the center speaker. However, there are some separational effects in the front stoundstage in various spots during the film.  The surrounds are used sparingly for effects, but all speakers come in hand at boosting the “now” famous soundtrack.

 PARAMOUNT has thrown in some supplements, making this an even better title to own.  Director Martin Brest provides a running commentary, and while there are long passages of silence, he also lends a great deal of information regarding the film’s production as well as in terms of gossip.  We hear more about the changes made because of Stallone’s hastened departure and more.

 A featurette, “BEVERLY HILLS COP-THE PHENOMENON BEGINS” explores the development of the film, from various rewrites, Stallone’s departure, and more.  It’s less than half an hour and is never dull.  “A GLIMPSE INTO THE CASTING PROCESS” offers “behind-the-scenes” footage.  “MUSIC OF BEVERLY HILLS COP” is self-explanatory, and “LOCATION MAP” offers the production designer a chance to discuss what this job entails.