Mattapoisett Boy’s Superpower Film Chosen for Comic Con Screening

When the Friends of Jack Foundation decided to produce a short film last year, they never imagined it would be so well received that it would be featured at San Diego Comic Con, but that’s exactly what happened.

Originally, the film was meant to be a standard slideshow-style presentation shown at fundraising events, heartfelt and informative, designed to tug at the heartstrings and highlight the organization’s mission.

“It was supposed to tell Jack's story and explain the foundation, very basic,” said Friends of Jack Executive Director Peter Cohenno. What it became, however, was a short film that told the moving story of Jack Fearons and his early health struggles.

Jack experienced complications with his brain as a young child. After recovering, his family discovered something unexpected. The experience had seemingly unlocked what they call a "superpower."

“This project was a way to turn a negative experience into something positive,” Cohenno explained. “We discovered Jack’s superpower that developed during his health battle, his ability to play the piano, something he couldn’t do before.”

Why Was the Film Chosen for Comic Con?

The Hero in Us premiered at the Friends of Jack Gala last September. The response was so strong that the film was entered into the Whaling City Film Festival. Given its superhero theme, the directors submitted it on a whim to San Diego Comic Con.

Everyone involved was stunned when Comic Con responded with an invitation to screen the film and host a one-hour Q&A session.

“The San Diego Comic Con is the one,” said Cohenno. “Sure, there’s one in Boston, another in Providence, but San Diego? That’s a big deal.”

What’s Next for the Friends of Jack Foundation?

Now, the Friends of Jack Foundation hopes this opportunity will pave the way for more short films about the inspiring children they’ve helped.