The film opens with classic hits from the original movies, setting a nostalgic tone that persists throughout the movie. Eddie Murphy returns as the wisecracking Detroit detective Axel Foley, alongside familiar faces such as Judge Reinhold and John Ashton. The inclusion of these characters and music from the original films like 'The Heat Is On' and 'Neutron Dance' aims to evoke a sense of familiarity and comfort among fans of the franchise. This approach has been seen as both a strength, for evoking nostalgia, and a weakness, for relying heavily on old successes without introducing enough new elements.

While the film brings back many original characters, it also introduces new ones, such as Foley's estranged daughter, Jane, played by Taylour Paige, and a new partner in the form of Joseph Gordon-Levitt's character. These new additions are designed to bridge the gap between the original audience and newer viewers. The plot revolves around Foley returning to Beverly Hills to help his daughter, who is embroiled in a case involving corrupt police officers, reflecting a more contemporary take on police accountability and justice.

The film not only serves as a piece of entertainment but also as a commentary on the changing perceptions of police in media. This shift is evident in the portrayal of Foley's methods and the new ethical dilemmas he faces, contrasting the more straightforward heroism of the original films. Critics and audiences have had mixed reactions, with some appreciating the nostalgic elements and others criticizing the film for not adapting more significantly to contemporary issues. The discussion reflects broader societal conversations about law enforcement and media representation.