In Dogeaters, American influence is seen through popular culture, such as movies and the popularity of movie stars, and American commercial products, including food.

One of the key representations of American popular cultural influence is the ongoing reference to Rita Hayworth, which occupies a chapter. Rio’s mother, Dolores, is famous for her resemblance to the glamorous star of the 1940s. Rio recalls that she was called “the Rita Hayworth of the Philippines.” A photograph of the star’s appearance at a party promoting an upcoming film prompts her mother’s excited anticipation of seeing that film.

Preoccupation with the movies is also evidence in Romeo Rosales’s unfulfilled dream of becoming a star, as his friend Tito had done. Rio and her cousin constantly discuss American movies, arguing about which of their favorites star in particular films.

And who plays Jane Wyman’s spoiled son and Gloria Talbott’s daughter? Pucha insists he’s Tab Hunter, her second favorite actor after Rock Hudson. I shake my head and don’t have the heart to argue with her.

The status value of American products, because they are very expensive in the Philippines, is contrasted to their association with convenience and cheapness in the United States. When they host a lavish dinner party honoring an American diplomat, the Gonzagas proudly serve such products as Velveeta and Jell-O.