The superhumans Samaritan and Nemesis were twin brothers who lived in Granite City. They ultimately fought in the city's power plant, causing a fire, and both were apparently killed in the ensuing explosion. Many people remain fans of the Samaritan and there are rumors that he is still alive.
In the present, thirteen-year-old Sam Cleary tries his best to help his mom with the financial crisis they are in. He accepts a job from a gang headed by Reza. The plan goes haywire, but the real gang leader, Cyrus, is impressed and personally gives Sam $110. Reza and his friends later attack Sam as payback but are stopped by Joe Smith, a garbage collector who lives in the apartment across from Sam's. Joe displays super-strength in fighting off the bullies, causing Sam to suspect that he is the Samaritan. Meanwhile, Cyrus finds Nemesis's hammer and sets himself up as the new Nemesis, sparking riots and chaos throughout the city.
Sam spies on Joe and eventually confronts him. Joe denies that he is the Samaritan, but Reza - still looking for revenge - hits him with his car. Joe is badly injured but Sam sees him revive and heal. Sam learns that using his healing powers causes Joe to overheat to dangerous levels and he has to cool off. Joe tells Sam to keep his secret. They build a friendship, with Joe giving Sam fighting lessons. At the same time, Cyrus invites Sam to work with his gang, although Sam is disturbed when he overhears their violent activities.
When Joe defends a young girl from an explosion caused by Cyrus's gang, rumors spread that the Samaritan is back. Cyrus discovers Joe's identity and connection to Sam, and kidnaps Sam to lure Joe in. In their battle, it is revealed that Samaritan died during the power plant fire. Joe is actually Nemesis, who survived and went on to become a good citizen inspired by his brother. Joe kills Cyrus and breaks his hammer. He almost overheats from his healing powers and the spreading fire, but Sam breaks open a pipe to shower him with water. Joe recovers enough to escape with Sam by jumping out a window. Joe leaves, overhearing Sam tell the press that "Samaritan" saved him.
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