Ep 1. The Gang Exploits the Mortgage Crisis

In season 5 episode 1 of It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia, titled "The Gang Exploits the Mortgage Crisis," the irreverent gang is back to their scheming ways as they seek to take advantage of the housing market crash. The episode opens with the gang watching news reports about the mortgage crisis and the ensuing economic recession, which prompts them to hatch a plan.

Dennis and Mac begin by identifying a foreclosed house that they plan to purchase and renovate for a profit. But when they discover that they cannot secure a mortgage due to their poor credit history, they turn to Charlie for help. Charlie convinces them to use his mother's house as collateral and manages to secure a mortgage, but the plan quickly spirals out of control.

Meanwhile, Dee and Frank decide to start their own business and open a chariot racing track in the parking lot of Paddy's Pub. Their decision is inspired by Dee's recent trip to Greece, where she witnessed chariot racing firsthand. However, their business venture turns out to be a disaster as they have no customers and their chariot falls apart during the first race.

As the episode progresses, the gang's various schemes collide in unexpected ways. Charlie's mother shows up at Paddy's Pub demanding to know why her house is being renovated without her consent, while Dee and Frank's customers flee after their chariot collapses. And just when it seems like everything has gone wrong, the gang has a stroke of luck: a wealthy businessman offers to buy their newly renovated house for a massive profit.

Overall, "The Gang Exploits the Mortgage Crisis" is a hilarious and chaotic episode that highlights the gang's selfish and often misguided attempts to get rich quick. The episode is filled with absurd plot twists and outlandish schemes, as well as sharp social commentary on the mortgage crisis and the greed that led to it. With excellent performances from the entire cast and tight writing that balances humor with commentary, this episode is a standout in an already exceptional series.