Ep 17. The Fever

In The Twilight Zone season 1 episode 17, entitled "The Fever", we follow the story of a man named Franklin Gibbs who hates gambling. Franklin and his wife Flora decide to take a much-needed vacation to Las Vegas. Franklin had promised Flora that he wouldn't gamble, but once he is there he becomes fascinated and unable to resist the allure of the slot machines and the tables. Despite Flora's pleas, Franklin is consumed by the thrill of the game and becomes obsessed with winning.

Franklin's obsession leads him down a dark and dangerous path as he loses his money and his sanity. He begins to see and hear strange things, including a creepy jester who taunts him and his wife. Franklin's obsession with gambling grows worse by the day until he eventually suffers a complete breakdown. Flora tries to get through to Franklin, but he is unreachable - consumed by The Fever.

As the episode unfolds, Franklin experiences wild hallucinations and delusions. He meets other gamblers who are consumed with the same deadly desire. Franklin begins to understand the horror of his situation, but it may be too late. The casino and its machines are calling to him, tempting him with promises of fortune and glory. Can Franklin break free from their grasp?

The episode explores the themes of addiction, obsession and the destructive nature of gambling. It's a cautionary tale about the dangers of giving in to one's base desires and the cost that accompanies such indulgences. The story unfolds in classic Twilight Zone fashion with plenty of eerie visuals, creepy sound effects, and a surreal atmosphere that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

The performances in The Fever are outstanding, with lead actor Everett Sloane delivering a nuanced and sympathetic portrayal of a man consumed by his own weakness. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with a standout performance by Vivi Janis as the creepy jester who serves as Franklin's tormentor.

Overall, The Fever is a standout episode in The Twilight Zone's first season. It's a haunting and thought-provoking story that still resonates with viewers today. The episode offers a stark reminder that true wealth and happiness can't be found at a casino or through material indulgences, but rather through inner peace and self-control.