Critics in Love: A New Take on Art Review

The idea that no statue ever honors a critic is false. A bronze plaque for Roger Ebert stands in Illinois, and other statues exist too. Yet critics often prefer a work that shows their role rather than just their likeness. House of Criticism shifts focus from one person to a pair: Jerry Saltz, a New York Magazine art critic, and Roberta Smith, the co‑chief art critic at The New York Times. Married since 1992, they balance partnership with professional rivalry. The film captures their daily routines in a tidy 82‑minute format. Saltz is the outgoing one, strolling through Greenwich Village for coffee and making playful remarks about their life together. Smith, on the other hand, keeps a polite distance, playing her part in their teasing dynamic.Their conversations reveal how they shape each other’s thinking. While Saltz questions the purpose of art—“What does it do to you? ”—Smith reflects on her own growth as a critic. Together, they challenge the common view that criticism is merely good or bad; instead, it is about engaging deeply with art’s impact. The documentary sometimes drifts into interviews with celebrities like Cindy Sherman and Lena Dunham, who offer sharp questions about the couple’s childless life. These moments feel a bit forced but highlight their influence in cultural circles. The strongest scenes show the couple exploring New York’s art scene, from massive museums to hidden galleries. Their respect for both emerging and established artists illustrates the power of criticism in supporting diverse voices. Overall, House of Criticism is a celebration of New York City, the essential caffeine that fuels creativity, and the vital role critics play in interpreting art. It offers a fresh look at a field that rarely gets the spotlight it deserves.