ZIP #1
Creative Team
writer: MIKE SCRASE
illustrator: SAN ESPINA
letterer: FERRAN DELGADO
Reviewed by Rossano D’Angelo.
Zip #1 illustrates the challenge of leading a normal life from the point of view of a superhuman. The script by Mike Scrase delves deep into this very struggle, making the reader realize how the world is not often built or accessible for the “different.”
The story introduces Allison, a.k.a. Zip, who is trying to lead two lives: being a superhero and a responsible woman. Her powers, which make her different from the others, are also her curse. For her, the world moves so slowly she fails to keep her job, dating is almost impossible, and she also struggles to take care of her - let's just say - grandfather. It is when all hope is lost that Zip is involved in a life-changing event that will give her renewed faith in herself and the world. By the end of this first issue, though, readers will realise that someone is after her and wants her gone.
This first issue describes how difficult it is for someone like her to live their day-to-day life. That Allison's superpowers are a narrative element to describe disability becomes clear as the story goes on, but this doesn't mean the superhero plot is invalidated. Scrase found the right balance to depict a story of the human condition and a superhero comic book.
The black and white artwork by San Espina is solid with its deep black and gritty lines, although sometimes not easy to follow through the complex layouts that, on multiple occasions, seem to represent Allison's mind.
Zip #1 introduces the readers to the delicate topic of diversity with an intense superhero story filled with rich themes and layers.