Hard to Kill

"Hard to Kill" is a riveting action-drama movie directed by Bruce Malmuth that was released in 1990. The film features Steven Seagal, a renowned martial artist and action-star, alongside Kelly LeBrock and William Sadler, who give stunning performances to create a thrilling experience.

The storyline revolves around Mason Storm (played by Steven Seagal), a brave and tenacious Los Angeles detective who is well-known for his unyielding attitude toward law enforcement. Storm is a hard-boiled and dedicated man, unflinching in his pursuit of justice, who chooses to stand up to corruption despite the risks it poses to his life.

Storm stumbles upon a nefarious plot involving corrupt LAPD members and local mobsters while working on a case. He manages to capture footage of a high ranking official conspiring with a dangerous mobster on video, making him target number one for these dangerous criminals. This rebellious act puts his life and the safety of his family in jeopardy, showing viewers the harsh consequences of going against a brutal system.

In a violent and action-packed ambush set-piece, Storm is shot and left for dead. His wife is brutally murdered, and his young son is taken into protective custody. However, Storm survives the attack, and after various emergency procedures, falls into a prolonged coma. The ruthless criminals, misinformed of Storm's death, cease their pursuit, leading to some temporary respite.

After seven long years, Storm awakens from his coma to find himself in a drastically changed world. The once fearless detective has to grapple with his physical state, the passage of time, the loss of his wife and the absence of his son. This period of his life is characterized by intense personal struggle as he is nurtured back into the world by his nurse, Andy Stewart (played by Kelly LeBrock). With immense emotional depth, the film sensitively captures the process of healing and learning to navigate through life anew.

However, the placid recovery period does not last long. When Storm's existence is discovered by the corrupt officials responsible for his predicament, he finds himself drawn back into the bloody world of crime and vengeance almost immediately. Determined to bring the criminals who destroyed his life to justice, Storm's desire for revenge serves as the catalyst for the movie's explosive second half.

"Hard to Kill" excellently epitomizes the action genre of its time, offering high-octane fight sequences and gripping drama that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. It combines martial arts flair with explosive action sequences, making it a fan favorite among action movie enthusiasts. Steven Seagal's performance as Mason Storm lends the film a sense of realism and intensity, enhanced by his formidable martial arts skills. The film also displays his character's growth, showing him as not just a tough-as-nails cop but also a man coping with loss and hardship.

Kelly LeBrock's portrayal of Andy Stewart is authentic and adds depth to her character's relationship with Seagal's, creating a beautiful dynamic that adds emotional resonance to the film. Furthermore, William Sadler encapsulates the sheer menace of a ruthless villain, offering an impeccable performance that makes the characters' battle all the more engaging.

Throughout its runtime, "Hard to Kill" sustains a riveting pace and does not dilute its tension, making the film a definite must-watch for action lovers. The fine performances, masterful storytelling, gritty action sequences, and emotional depth amalgamate to form a film that leaves a lasting impression.

In conclusion, "Hard to Kill" is an energetic, action-packed drama filled with intense fight scenes and emotional undercurrents. With a recluse's resilience, a fighter's grit, and father's longing, Mason Storm's compelling journey of revenge, survival, and redemption renders the film a classic in the annals of 90s action cinema.