Eufronio Reyes “E.R.” Cruz

One of the cool things about the appreciation of art is that it's timeless. We still admire paintings in galleries that are centuries old. For myself, I approach comics from the late 60's and early 70's with a fresh set of eyes and start to recognize some of the truly great works that were available during this time period.

One of the Filipino artists often overlooked from this period is Eufronio Reyes “E.R.” Cruz. I have already featured Mr. Cruz's stellar artwork in "The Haunted Mountain" from DC's 'Unexpected' issue 175. However, every time I read one of the tales featuring his work, my admiration only grows. Today, we look at another of Mr. Cruz's offerings, this time from "The Witching Hour", issue 36 entitled "Death Held The Goblet".

Mr. Cruz's realistic style has always reminded my of Seinen manga from Japan. Not surprising, considering the proximity of Japan and its influence of Filipino culture throughout the seventies. And yet, Mr. Cruz is a style onto himself, immediately recognizable and distinctive. His style even predates most Seinen manga. His use of various points of artistic view and scenes lend support to Wally Wood's 22 Panels That Always Work. Mr. Cruz knows where to position the camera of the viewer's eye.

So, without further adieu, let us drink to the tragic tale of Helga the Magnificent only to learn that in the end, 'Death Held The Goblet'.

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