The Pez Outlaw 2022

The film revolves around Steven J. Glew, an eccentric individual hailing from DeWitt, Michigan. Set against the backdrop of the 1990s, Glew undertook a daring venture by smuggling Pez dispensers from Eastern Europe into the United States, amassing an astonishing fortune in the process. His journey is fraught with tension, particularly with a formidable executive from Pez USA, humorously dubbed the “Pezident,” who wielded significant control over the type of dispensers permitted in American markets. The story highlights how many unique dispensers were crafted by Pez International, yet they never made it to the U.S. market, creating a hungry demand among American collectors willing to part with significant sums for these coveted treasures.

As Glew embarked on multiple excursions to European Pez manufacturing plants, he procured millions of counterfeit dispensers, turning them into lucrative commodities. Remarkably, according to an insightful report by ABC News, Glew managed to generate an impressive $4.5 million over an eleven-year period. This success was largely due to a loophole—the Pez company did not conduct verification through U.S. Customs, enabling Glew to navigate the airport with his illicit bounty without much hassle.

The filmmakers, Amy and Bryan Storkel, intricately chronicled this fascinating chapter in the Pez universe, including the invaluable contributions of Jim Blaine, a prominent collector based in Hartland, Michigan. Blaine’s extensive Pez collection has gained worldwide acclaim, and since 2016, he has hosted a significant Pez convention annually in Metro Detroit. He eloquently captures the emotional depth of the narrative, stating, > “You watch this movie and in the end you realize, it’s a love story about Glew and his wife, Kathy.” His words resonate as he reflects on the tremendous support she offered Glew throughout his escapades, suggesting that the film transcends mere obsession with Pez; at its core, it embodies the profound love and dedication a man possesses for his family, a love so powerful that it drives him to extraordinary lengths.