In the 1980s, there was no comedic force in the movies quite like Eddie Murphy. Rising to fame as one of the most prominent members of Saturday Night Live when he was still in his early twenties, Murphy became a sensation thanks to his perfect comedic timing, his infectious laugh and smile, and his effortlessly cool screen presence. Some people just have the ‘IT’ factor, and Eddie had it and then some, and 48 Hrs and Beverly Hills Cop remain two of his signature vehicles.
While not every movie of his in the 80s was a winner (we’re talkin’ to you Best Defense and Harlem Nights), his track record was pretty darn impressive. And with all due respect to Coming to America and Trading Places, the two movies that best exemplify Murphy at the height of his charisma are 48 Hrs. and Beverly Hills Cop – the first one, obviously.
Released in 1982 and 1984, respectively, the two films solidified Eddie as a bona fide movie star and cemented his persona as a lovable wise guy with an irresistible – and often profane – way with words. But when put in the ring together, which movie is the better one? That’s what we’re going to find out in this edition of Face-Off: 48 Hrs. versus Beverly Hills Cop!
This episode of FACE-OFF is written by Eric Walkuski, narrated by Shawn Knippelberg, edited by John Nguyen and produced by Adam Walton and Chris Bumbray, while Berge Garabedian is executive producer. If you enjoy this video, why not subscribe to our JoBlo Originals YouTube channel and tell your friends who may also like this sort of content.