Ep 5. The Used Car Salesman

In Season 4 Episode 5 of "I Dream of Jeannie" titled "The Used Car Salesman," an amusing adventure unfolds as Tony Nelson, the dynamic astronaut, finds himself caught up in an unexpected whirlwind of chaos and mischief. This lighthearted yet thrilling episode takes viewers on a wild ride as Jeannie's magical antics collide with the cunning world of used car salesmen.

The episode opens with Tony Nelson, portrayed by the charismatic Larry Hagman, needing to purchase a new car. Unbeknownst to Tony, Jeannie, his mischievous and all-powerful genie, played by the enchanting Barbara Eden, decides to take matters into her own mystical hands and intervenes in the car search. Fueled by her love for Tony and her eagerness to help, Jeannie conjures up a car dealership out of thin air.

As the doors of the mystical dealership open, Tony is greeted by a charismatic and slick used car salesman named Eddie, portrayed flawlessly by the versatile Don Knotts. Eddie's exaggerated charm and cunning nature make for a hilarious contrast to Tony's genuine and serious demeanor.

Eddie guides Tony through a range of questionable vehicles, from rusty old clunkers to flashy but unreliable luxury cars. With every car Tony test-drives, Jeannie's magic creates comedic mishaps that leave the unsuspecting salesman perplexed and Tony in fits of laughter. Eddie's frustration grows as he struggles to explain the bizarre occurrences during each test drive.

In an effort to counter Jeannie's mischievous interventions, Eddie enlists the help of his fellow car salesman, Charlie, brilliantly portrayed by Richard Deacon. Charlie, a dry-witted and skeptical character, is initially dubious about Eddie's claims of supernatural interference. However, after witnessing one of Jeannie's magical escapades firsthand, Charlie becomes both bewildered and intrigued.

As Tony becomes more entwined in the enigmatic world of used car sales, Jeannie grows restless. She decides to take her magical interventions to the next level, leading to a hilarious series of events that sweep the dealership into complete chaos. Cars begin to fly through the air, engines roar without ignition, and doors slam shut out of thin air. Through all this, Eddie and Charlie struggle to maintain a semblance of control in their increasingly supernatural workplace.

Amidst the pandemonium, Jeannie's affectionate heart shines as her intentions remain unwavering – she simply wants to provide Tony with the perfect car. With each new disruption, Tony realizes the extent of Jeannie's involvement and can't help but be both exasperated and amused. While Tony tries to reason with Jeannie and curtail her magical interventions, he also acknowledges that her intentions are pure, leading to moments of both frustration and endearment.

As the episode progresses, Jeannie's magical hijinks inadvertently reveal previously unknown qualities about the used car salesman duo. Eddie, despite his sly charms, demonstrates a surprisingly honorable side as he works diligently to ensure Tony's satisfaction. Meanwhile, Charlie's skepticism begins to waver, and he finds himself questioning the possibilities of the supernatural.

"The Used Car Salesman" combines elements of comedy, fantasy, and genuine warmth to create a captivating episode. With its clever writing, stellar performances from the cast, and inventive use of Jeannie's magical powers, this episode offers viewers an amusing and heartwarming storyline.

As the episode comes to an end, viewers are left wondering whether Tony eventually finds the perfect car amidst the chaos and if Eddie and Charlie will come to fully understand the extent of Jeannie's powers. Throughout the episode, friendships are strengthened, trust is challenged, and laughter abounds. "The Used Car Salesman" is an enthralling installment of "I Dream of Jeannie" that will leave audiences smiling and eagerly anticipating the next enchanting adventure.