The kernel needs to be working if you want to connect your device to the computer. Why can't it be turned on ?
The only way to access the internal storage from a dead phone that I know of would be to open it and use specialized tools to connect directly to the flash memory chip, which is a complicated process. If your phone does boot but the screen stays black, then you might have a chance to connect it and access internal files using ADB (http
/www.redmondpie.com/how-to-set-up-android-adb-and-fastboot-on-windows-tutorial/). If "adb devices" doesn't return a serial number even though you tried powering it on, then you're out of luck