Ted Cruz faces scrutiny in ‘American Psycho’-themed political ad

A political ad that shocks

Senator Ted Cruz is once again under the spotlight, this time in a visually striking political ad that takes inspiration from the 2000 cult classic film “American Psycho.” The ad aims to criticize Cruz’s infamous 2021 Cancun vacation, which occurred during a chaotic period for Texas when a massive power outage left millions without electricity. Developed by NRDC Action Votes, an environmental PAC, the ad paints Cruz in a less-than-favorable light, casting him in the role of Patrick Bateman, the anti-hero of the story.

A familiar narrative

Patrick Bateman, the character portrayed by Christian Bale in the film, is a wealthy New York City investment banker with a dark, sinister side. Known for his obsession with pop culture and beauty, Bateman’s internal monologue reveals a chilling lack of empathy, as he navigates life in upper-crust Manhattan while possibly committing heinous crimes. This narrative device is cleverly repurposed by NRDC Action Votes in the ad, drawing parallels between Bateman’s cold detachment and Cruz’s perceived indifference during the Texas crisis.

Setting the scene

The ad opens with a voiceover eerily reminiscent of Bateman’s introspective monologues. “There is an idea of Ted Cruz. Some kind of abstraction. But there is no real me,” it declares, as the camera pans across an opulent hotel room in a scene that could easily be set in Cancun. The juxtaposition of luxury and the headline “Texans Struggle Through Unprecedented Power Outages After Storm” on a wall-mounted TV underscores the contrast between Cruz’s vacation and the hardships faced by his constituents. The voiceover continues, “That is until the power grid collapses, and I flee to Cancun. While families huddle together, freezing in the cold, I sip margaritas under the sun.”

Clever Easter eggs

For keen-eyed viewers, the ad is sprinkled with Easter eggs that add layers of commentary on Cruz’s public image. A police sketch resembling the Zodiac killer nods to the humorous conspiracy theory suggesting Cruz is the infamous murderer. The ad also features a canister labeled “Big Boy Beard Cream,” referencing Cruz’s much-discussed facial hair, and a bottle of “Scent of a Human” cologne, further emphasizing the persona crafted around him.

Critique with a cause

NRDC Action Votes, known for its mission to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability, uses this ad to hold Cruz accountable for his actions. According to the PAC’s director, Jocelyn Steinberg, the ad highlights the connection between Cruz’s behavior and the broader issue of climate change. Steinberg emphasizes the significance of acknowledging climate change and its impact, noting that it leads to more severe weather conditions such as harsher hurricanes, heatwaves, floods, and stronger winter storms.

The political landscape

As this election year unfolds, Cruz is defending his Senate seat against Texas Rep. Colin Allred. The race is highly competitive, with recent polls indicating a virtual dead heat. In this heated political climate, the “Cruz Psycho” ad emerges as a potent piece of political commentary, aiming to sway public opinion and highlight Cruz’s alleged disinterest in the plight of his constituents.

Technical insights: Ad creation and effects

Creating such a nuanced ad requires a deep understanding of both cinematic techniques and political messaging. The ad excels in its use of intertextuality, drawing on well-known scenes and lines from “American Psycho” to make a pointed political statement. This approach plays on the audience’s familiarity with the film, leveraging its cultural impact to amplify the ad’s message.

Moreover, the use of visual storytelling is particularly effective. The luxurious setting and carefully chosen props communicate wealth and detachment, mirroring the original film’s critique of 1980s yuppie culture. The choice of scenes, from the revealing monologue to the symbolic Easter eggs, work together to create a cohesive narrative that resonates with viewers on multiple levels.

Broader implications

This ad does more than comment on Cruz’s Cancun trip; it reflects larger issues in political accountability and environmental policy. By framing the narrative around Cruz’s actions during a crisis, NRDC Action Votes draws attention to the consequences of inadequate leadership, especially amid climate change-induced disasters. The stark portrayal serves as a reminder of the urgent need for responsible governance and genuine concern for public welfare.

With the “Cruz Psycho” ad set to air statewide across various streaming platforms, its impact remains to be seen. However, it undoubtedly adds a compelling chapter to the ongoing discourse around political responsibility and environmental advocacy.

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