In this episode of Logan's Run, Logan, Jessica, and Rem come in contact with a diabolical scientist, Dr. Rowan(Ed Nelson)who operates a lunatic asylum where the patients are "reprogrammed" with their feelings removed so they can be "menials" operating as an army of soldiers. Jessica, someone who fits the criteria for reprogramming, an independent, vocal woman who resists the idea of following orders as a mindless sheep, is held prisoner, Dr. Rowan wanting Logan's "courage", his "fear factor" so impressive, such an emotional asset would benefit the menials who are cowardly needing bravery to complete the dream of building such a zombie army who can defend themselves against the outside world. Logan's only hope could be Dr. Paulson(Jared Martin; War of the Worlds the series), Rowan's chosen successor, as he seems to have conflicts with the whole process behind wiping away human feeling as a means to control those in the asylum. As is often the case during the series, Rem's android capabilities will be sorely needed if Logan is to somehow save Jessica and escape the asylum. Rowan is an obvious metaphor for Hitler and his mad dream of building the perfect army, no moral compass, like many a mad scientist, he operates with reason and intellect, unable to see how truly twisted his actions really are. In Rowan's philosophy, no one should think for themselves or express their feelings, considered weaknesses easily eradicated through a mind-control machine which vaporizes the patient's humanity, who they are and how they function as self-sufficient, self-controlled human beings, liberated to rationalize and exist without an authoritative figure demanding their silence by turning them into human robots.
Review of Fear Factor
