“Cabali and the Tiki Mug Obsession” Premieres Tonight at Dances With Films

Featuring appearances by Kate Flannery, Todd Rundgren, and SHAG, the film celebrates the vibrant subculture born in Southern California

Tiki culture takes center stage tonight in Hollywood as the feature documentary Cabali and the Tiki Mug Obsession makes its Los Angeles premiere at Dances With Films (DWF) 2026. Screening at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre at 8:00 PM, the film offers a deep dive into the artistry, history, and modern resurgence of a unique subculture.

The Story Behind the Mug Directed by Josh Dragotta, the documentary explores how Tiki mug collecting evolved from a niche hobby into a global community centered on craftsmanship and nostalgia. While many classic Tiki bars shuttered by the early 1990s, a dedicated group of artists and collectors in Southern California helped preserve the movement through boutique publishing and internet forums.

The film highlights the role of Doug “Fini” Finical, a longtime collector whose passion inspired the creation of Cabali, a speakeasy-style Tiki bar located in Oro Valley, Arizona.

Star-Studded Insights The 96-minute feature includes appearances by several high-profile enthusiasts and experts, including:

• Kate Flannery (The Office)
• Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Todd Rundgren
• Renowned artist and illustrator SHAG
• A diverse group of Tiki historians, musicians, and collectors.

Behind the Lens Director Josh Dragotta spent three years filming the project, utilizing a blend of archival materials and stylized cinematography to capture the community. Dragotta brings a wealth of experience to the documentary, with editorial credits on major projects such as La La Land, Bullet Train, and Severance.

Screening Details

• When: Tonight, June 20, 2026, at 8:00 PM
• Where: TCL Chinese Theatre, 6801 Hollywood Blvd
• Run Time: 96 minutes

Produced by Mike Clements, Tony Marsico, Josh Dragotta, and Fini Finical, the film serves as both a historical record and a celebration of a movement that refused to disappear.