I understand he is criticizing the American capitalistic system by showing what the system does to particular aspects. Because of capitalism, these institutions have been corrupted. I feel our disparity is over semantics at this point. He shows these aspects in a negative light, he is critical of them, which to me, is criticism. I don't know if критиковать has the same connotation.

With regards to a couple reading advertisements for car sales on their honeymoon, I would say that is certainly mocking. Is he not poking fun at the couple's values? Instead of sharing a love-filled vacation, they are looking for bargains, and the over the top language, saying they are happier than Adam and Eve were, shows the sarcastic tone, no? Again, to me that is mocking.

Having said that, of course I will take your word as far as how to describe what he is doing in Russian.