Ep 14. The Whole Tooth and . . .

In the lively and humor-filled world of Get Smart, the iconic spy spoof series, season two presents another entertaining escapade in episode 14, titled The Whole Tooth and . . .. This episode showcases the charm and comedic talents of Maxwell Smart, played by Don Adams, as he continues his misguided but well-meaning efforts as an agent for CONTROL, a secret government agency dedicated to thwarting the nefarious plans of the evil KAOS organization.

The episode launches with a unique premise that revolves around a dental theme, illustrating the show's knack for combining everyday scenarios with thrilling spy antics. As Maxwell Smart and his ever-loyal partner, Agent 99, played by Barbara Feldon, are caught up in a particularly bizarre case, viewers are treated to a mix of outlandish situations, clever dialogue, and plenty of slapstick humor.

The plot kicks off when CONTROL discovers that KAOS is plotting to sabotage a crucial component of national security involving a top-secret project. However, their method is far from conventional: KAOS is targeting dentists and dental offices, leading Smart and 99 into a world where oral health becomes central to espionage. The absurdity of the situation is compounded by Smart's trademark clumsiness, which often leads him into awkward encounters, humorous misunderstandings, and unpredictable circumstances.

As the episode progresses, Smart's determination to uncover the sinister motivations behind KAOS's dastardly plot leads to hilarity. The writing is sharp, filled with puns and clever wordplay that playfully engages viewers while building the comedic tension. From the outset, Smart's interactions with his colleagues at CONTROL and his encounters with villains provide laugh-out-loud moments that underscore the thin line between seriousness and absurdity that the series expertly balances.

Throughout The Whole Tooth and . . ., the dynamic between Smart and Agent 99 shines brightly. Their partnership is not only rooted in camaraderie but also showcases a playful banter that highlights their chemistry and mutual respect. Agent 99's exasperation with Smart's antics adds a delightful layer to their relationship, as she often finds herself in the role of the straight woman amidst his chaotic misadventures. This episode gives viewers glimpses of 99’s resourcefulness, showcasing her quick thinking and ability to adapt to the unfolding situation, which is essential when tackling the challenges posed by KAOS.

The villain of the episode introduces a new comedic flair, blending menace with incompetence. The characterization of the antagonists is a hallmark of the series—often caricatured, they embody the ridiculousness of the spy genre. As Smart navigates through a series of comedic close calls, encounters with the villain provide ample opportunities for laugh-inducing moments. Max's over-the-top spy tactics and gadgets often fall flat, leading to humorous outcomes that keep audiences entirely entertained.

In typical Get Smart fashion, the episode features a variety of clever gadgets that Smart tries to use, often with limited success. The show's penchant for inventive, if impractical, spy tools adds an extra layer of whimsy, making for memorable scenes that contribute to the show's enduring charm. These gadgets, along with the vibrant scenarios that Smart finds himself in, are a significant part of the series' appeal.

The storytelling structure of The Whole Tooth and . . . effectively maintains a pace that keeps viewers engaged. The narrative unfolds through a series of mishaps and misdirections that build upon each other, culminating in a race against time to foil KAOS's plot. Just as one thinks the situation is under control, new developments arise, propelling Smart into further comedic situations where he must rely on instinct and a bit of luck.

Visually, the episode exploits the rich 1960s aesthetic, with stylish set designs and costumes that evoke the era while contributing to the show's unique identity. The direction and cinematography effectively capture the mix of action and comedy, utilizing clever framing and visual gags that enhance the comedic storytelling.

In summary, The Whole Tooth and . . . stands out as a quintessential episode of Get Smart that encapsulates the series' humor, charm, and clever twists. Engaging characters, witty scriptwriting, and absurd plotlines come together to make this entry a delightful experience for fans and newcomers alike. As Maxwell Smart navigates through the world of espionage with his trademark bumbling style, viewers are guaranteed a hilarious ride that leaves a lasting impression, reminding us all that even in the world of spies, laughter is the best weapon against chaos.