Smitten

About This Movie

Smitten is such a curious exploration of art and obsession. Rene di Rosa, the protagonist, is an eccentric character, driven not by sales or trends but by an earnest passion for discovering art, especially from Northern California. The film’s tone captures the whimsical yet serious side of collecting, with pacing that allows viewers to linger in the delightful world of his vast collection. It’s not just about the pieces themselves; it’s about the stories behind them and the joy they bring. There’s a certain charm in how the documentary unfolds—it's not flashy, but it feels genuine, making the audience reflect on what art really means to them.

Smitten was released in 2006 and has had a limited distribution since, making it somewhat of a rarity for collectors. While it may not be as widely known as other art documentaries, its focus on a singular passion presents a niche appeal to those interested in local art movements. The scarcity of physical formats, especially on DVD, has garnered a steady interest among collectors looking to deepen their understanding of contemporary art through personal narratives.