Movie Review: The Pez Outlaw – A Quirky, Fun, and Free-Wheeling Gem of a Documentary

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An engaging, lively, and unconventional documentary that showcases an extraordinary individual in a surprising, intellectually stimulating, and almost unbelievable narrative.

It’s challenging to envision a full-length documentary centered around Pez – the beloved, cartoon character-shaped candy containers. However, hidden beneath their adorable exterior lies a vibrant subculture that is home to some of the world’s most passionate collectors. These enthusiasts diligently search online in pursuit of the rarest and most humorous Pez dispensers available on the market.

Both sentences convey the same idea, but the second version provides a more natural and easy-to-read flow while maintaining clarity and engagement.

As a passionate movie enthusiast, it’s no secret that I often find myself intrigued by unique documentaries. In this case, “The Pez Outlaw” isn’t your typical candy-aisle flick. Instead, it takes you on an exhilarating journey into the vibrant community of Pez collectors, unveiling their hidden passion and one individual’s relentless pursuit to acquire the rarest and most precious Pez dispensers worldwide.

The film titled “The Pez Outlaw“, helmed by Bryan Storkel, narrates the enchanting and authentic tale of Steve Glew, a bearded small-town Michigan resident. Once emblematic of the fervor surrounding the Pez phenomenon, Glew established an underground network in the ’90s for trading the scarcest and most coveted dispensers. He was smitten by a sweet compulsion before the popular game had even been created, transforming his enthusiasm and relentless determination into a covert operation that spanned continents across Europe.

In an unexpected twist, the vibrant and whimsical Pez dispensers, items typically associated with sweet treats, are actually linked to espionage in “The Pez Outlaw.” This narrative delves into the paradoxes surrounding Glew’s unusual assignment, as a man of ordinary candy holders unknowingly found himself entangled in a Pez conspiracy.

Storkel’s documentary transforms Glew’s passion for collecting into a suspenseful thriller, much like Man on Wire. Instead of attempting a highwire act, The Pez Outlaw explores Glew’s captivating quirks and relentless pursuit, presenting a tale that pushes the boundaries.

In “The Pez Outlaw,” we delve into the intricate bond between Glew and the dispenser devices, revealing a tale that transforms their pop culture significance into his immense wealth. This captivating narrative offers an insightful look into the peculiarities of this realm, where what might appear as a trivial pursuit to others, proved to be a lucrative treasure trove for Glew. As he traversed the globe with unbridled freedom and charmed everyone he met, Glew earned the title of a beloved rebel.

A unique individual, spending time with Steve is always entertaining due to his endearing and enchanting demeanor that stands out from the crowd. Without a trace of pretense, Steve’s distinctive character unfolds as you delve into his intriguing lifestyle, questionable dealings in the black market, and his infectious enthusiasm for trading valuable items that others had overlooked.

Instead of following the traditional path of documentaries, “The Pez Outlaw” chooses to emulate its unconventional subject’s spirit by being just as playful. It narrates an extraordinary story while balancing both heart and humor, whether it delves into the ethically questionable territories of copyright infringement and smuggled imports or examines corporate stances on these issues. The documentary moves between profiles of renowned Pez collectors to those who threatened legal action, making “The Pez Outlaw” a sweet, globetrotting adventure with a thrilling twist.

Glew’s relentless pursuit for Pez dispensers is deeply ingrained in his personal identity, and he finds delight in examining their impact on popular culture through history. The significance and worth that collectors assign to these candy containers only intensifies this interest. In an era where the perceived value of physical possessions and artifacts seems to dwindle, Glew’s fascination underscores how personal appreciation can truly determine intrinsic value. As technology advances and takes center stage, this vintage relic serves as a reminder that true value is often subjective and lies in the hands of the observer.

“What, me worry?”

A persistent sense of wonder, known as The Pez Outlaw, maintains an atmosphere full of amusement and positivity, aiming to embody the lively enthusiasm that is often associated with a pastime. Poking fun at himself, Glew embraces his label as eccentric and enjoys his unconventional position. With cunning, he outsmarts the influential figures, using his wit to challenge the system and find a niche for himself in a world where wealth is a measure of status. However, he manages to make earning a living an unexpectedly enjoyable and fulfilling experience.

However, it’s important to note that Steve Glew’s carefree lifestyle is not without consequence. Initially, he seemed to have found a loophole, but eventually, the authorities intervened in what was supposed to be Glew’s Robin Hood-like endeavor. The documentary not only showcases the thrilling aspects of this pursuit but also delves into the more somber aspects of Glew’s mission. It subtly explores his obsession, painting a picture that combines elements of both light and dark, revealing the underlying sadness and loneliness associated with his seemingly glamorous hobby.

Without flinching from setbacks, Glew maintains an open approach when reflecting on past events, gaining unique insights from his family, acquaintances, and rivals. Despite their humor, these interviewees provide some insight into the journey and the intricate layers surrounding the concept of letting obsession control one’s life. An accurate appraisal, The Pez Outlaw exudes a warm optimism as Glew shares his misadventures and expresses gratitude for having lived just beyond the daily grind.

In a friendly and appealing manner, Glew’s charisma takes center stage, enhanced by his unique bond with his devoted wife and their countryside dwelling. This candid and personal style maintains an emotional connection and sincerity as events unfold. A straightforward documentary, “The Pez Outlaw” is driven by the radiance of Glew’s endearing character and Storkel’s knack for finding beauty in everyday life.

As a cinephile, I’d say this documentary is like a Pez dispenser – full of vibrant, offbeat charm that keeps you hooked. It might seem straightforward, but it’s stranger than fiction. It beautifully encapsulates Glew’s insatiable enthusiasm for life, serving as a profound reflection on the significance of possessions in our lives. Moments of tranquil introspection mix seamlessly with more dynamic and thrilling performances, ensuring there’s no shortage of excitement.

The Pez Outlaw documentary is exceptional at storytelling, offering a vibrant surge of creativity and an entertaining adventure that appeals to our inner child. Initially amusing, it delves into profound topics like identity and obsession, showcasing how we often replace genuine life riches with trivial items. Although not categorized as philosophical, these thought-provoking questions emerge naturally within this peculiar, entertaining, lighthearted, yet profound exploration of human nature.

The bottom line: Quirky

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2025-03-12 15:43