In Hard to Kill, Mason Storm (played by Steven Seagal) is a detective with a reputation for being a maverick cop who takes on the toughest cases. However, his uncompromising style makes enemies, and one day he comes home to find hitmen waiting for him. They shoot him and his wife (played by Kelly LeBrock), leaving them both for dead. However, their young son, who was hiding in a closet, survives.
Mason is in a coma for seven years, during which time his enemies believe him to be dead. However, when he wakes up, he realizes that his life is in danger and that he needs to protect his son. He is determined to find out who was behind the attack and to bring them to justice.
With the help of his nurse, Andy Stewart (played by Bonnie Burroughs), who has become his friend and ally during his long recovery, Mason sets out to unravel the conspiracy that led to his shooting. His investigations lead him to his former partner, Jack Axel (played by Fredrick Coffin), who he discovers was involved in the plot against him.
Mason's son, meanwhile, has grown up without his father and resents him for abandoning him. He is shocked when Mason suddenly appears in his life and struggles to reconcile his feelings towards his father.
The film climaxes with Mason and his allies facing off against his enemies in a final showdown. Mason uses his martial arts skills to take on the hitmen and ultimately emerges victorious. He is reunited with his son, who finally understands the sacrifices his father made to protect him.