Kerpow! #1: The Choices Made for Us
Creative Team
writers: TOM FYANS
artist: JULIO BRILHA
colorist: ROD FERNANDES
letterer: MARCO DELLA VERDE
publisher: SCOUT COMICS
Reviewed by Seth Adrian Romo
Kerpow! #1 is a crime drama whose unique spin on the superhero genre unleashes a wealth of storytelling potential.
Jacob’s world has always been surrounded by violence. As a child, he experienced the trauma of witnessing a famous hero killed inside his home. Years later, the violence continues to follow him as he is forced to be part of a world of heroes and villains—regardless if he wants to.
The issue opens with a young Jacob alone in his room reading comics by flashlight. It’s a similar sight for comic book fans that exists for a brief moment in time as thuds and screams can be heard from outside the room. Soon, Jacob goes to investigate the noise and he discovered his father holding a gun to the vigilante known as “Midknight.”
Written by Tom Fyans, the script for Kerpow! #1 starts with a hook and stays interesting throughout the 24 pages experience. While vigilantes play a role in the story, the focus on Jacob and the paths pushed upon him create a thought provoking commentary of destiny and the limited options individuals face. With the source of tension existing between characters, it should be noted that this leans heavy on the dialogue—but rarely does it interfere with the art as Marco Della Verde places the text well throughout the panels.
Illustrated by Julio Brilha and colored by Rod Fernandes, the style suits the universe well, thought adding more background detail could enrich the world around Jacob. While not essential, given the range of locations, some panels feel sparse despite having well-crafted characters and vibrant colors.
Final Verdict
In the crowded genre of superhero stories, Kerpow! cleverly carves its own exciting space by focusing on the everyday people who live in a world of vigilantes and violence.
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Writing | 9.0 |
| Story/Plot | 9.0 |
| Art/Line Work | 8.5 |
| Colors | 9.0 |
| Final Score | 8.9/10 |