In the wake of Donald Trump’s resounding victory over Kamala Harris, Democrats and liberal celebrities alike seem to be losing their grip. Many were convinced that Harris had the election in the bag, but Trump claimed both the Electoral College and popular vote, leaving the left scrambling for explanations—and some prominent figures lashing out in frustration.
One of the most notable responses came from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), who took to social media with another impassioned video expressing her disappointment. In her latest appearance, AOC went off on Trump’s victory, unleashing what’s become a recurring reaction to any conservative win. And while she may have been venting, Hollywood’s own Justine Bateman didn’t let this theatrical performance go unchecked.
Known for her refreshing takes, Bateman launched another installment of her #SocialMediaVideoCritique series, where she humorously analyzes the technical aspects of videos made by liberals in the aftermath of Trump’s win. Bateman’s approach? Rather than directly mocking the message, she critiques everything from lighting to camera angles, transforming liberal rants into a masterclass on video production. In her response to AOC’s video, Bateman noted a few hilariously deadpan observations:
“The director delivers a piece full of subliminal messages,” Bateman began, setting the tone for her critique. “The camera is hand-held and uneasy, telegraphing uncertainty and confusion. The actress’ left hand comes up and cups the chin repeatedly, indicating the character’s deep desire for a beard, a covering.”
Bateman’s description continued with keen focus on the setting, saying, “The background is the star here. The chaotic blend of blacks and greys is almost a blurred representation of Picasso’s ‘Guernica,’ but here, the production designer strays slightly with a red accent, bringing an immediacy to the piece.” The commentary adds a new dimension, making AOC’s video appear more like performance art than genuine political outrage.
This isn’t Bateman’s first rodeo. Just a few days earlier, she critiqued yet another AOC video in which the congresswoman lamented that the nation was on the brink of “fascism and authoritarianism.” In that video, AOC’s lighting setup took center stage for Bateman’s critique: “Again, we see this lighting mistake that many are making. Notice the vague, overhead lights, the absence of a ‘key light’ on her face, and the way her face is flattened as a result.” Bateman then pointed out AOC’s lengthy monologues, dryly suggesting that a “rewrite could help simplify and focus the intent.”
Bateman’s critiques have quickly gone viral, with conservatives cheering her satirical approach. It’s refreshing to see a Hollywood star who isn’t afraid to call out left-wing antics, especially when so much of the entertainment industry seems to be locked in step with the Democrats. As the older sister of Jason Bateman, the Family Ties alum has a unique position in Hollywood, and her video critiques demonstrate that she’s willing to say what many are thinking but few dare to express.
In a world where A-list celebrities often toe the progressive line, Bateman’s unapologetic takedowns are a breath of fresh air. She brings a sense of humor and perspective to an industry where opposing views are often stifled. Her #SocialMediaVideoCritique series is resonating with a wide audience, reminding us that sometimes, laughter is the best response to political theater.