Critics in Love: A New Take on Art Review

The myth 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.

A Pair, Not a Single Star

House of Criticism shifts focus from one person to a pair:

• Jerry Saltz, New York Magazine art critic, outgoing and coffee‑loving.
• Roberta Smith, co‑chief art critic at The New York Times, polite and poised.

Married since 1992, they balance partnership with professional rivalry. The film captures their daily routines in a tidy 82‑minute format, offering an intimate look at how they shape each other’s thinking.

Dialogues that Define Criticism

• 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.

Celebrity Cameos

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.

New York Through Their Eyes

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.

A Celebration of City, Coffee, and Critique

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.