After holding onto the top spot on Netflix’s top 10 list for almost two weeks, Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F has been dethroned by a 2023 film titled The Long Game, starring Dennis Quaid, Jay Hernandez, and Cheech Marin. The Long Game tells the true story of the San Felipe Mustangs, a group of Mexican-American youths from Del Rio, Texas, who overcame prejudice to become the 1957 Texas state champions in golf. Despite only making $3 million worldwide in theaters, the film has received positive reviews, with an 81% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes and a 97% audience score, leading to its newfound popularity on Netflix.
Eddie Murphy’s return to the role that launched him to stardom in Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F was met with solid reviews and praise for his performance. The success of the film has sparked speculation about a potential fifth installment in the franchise, as there still appears to be a strong appetite for Murphy’s character. Meanwhile, the third spot on Netflix’s top 10 list is held by the Italian mystery film Vanished in the Night, which follows a couple’s search for their missing children. A Family Affair, previously at the top of the list, has fallen to the fifth spot, while popular kids movies like Minions, Super Mario Bros, Shrek, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2, and 1994’s Little Rascals round out the rest of the list.
With its solid reviews and star power, The Long Game may continue to perform well on Netflix, despite not making a significant impact at the box office. The film’s newfound popularity is a testament to the streaming platform’s ability to bring attention to hidden gems that may have been overlooked in theaters. For viewers looking for a compelling story with an underdog narrative, The Long Game could be a worthwhile watch, especially for those looking for a movie to enjoy with family or friends. As the film continues to gain traction on Netflix, it may hold its own against the competition and find an extended audience.
As streaming services continue to dominate the entertainment landscape, films like The Long Game have the opportunity to reach a wider audience and attract attention long after their theatrical releases. The success of The Long Game on Netflix demonstrates the platform’s ability to elevate lesser-known titles and introduce them to a global audience. For fans of Dennis Quaid and compelling sports dramas, The Long Game offers a unique and inspiring story that resonates with viewers of all ages. As Netflix’s top 10 list continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how The Long Game fares against other popular titles and whether it maintains its momentum in the coming weeks.