The flashback sequence in question shows Revok explain to a medical professional that he drilled a hole in his forehead to relieve the pressure and let the “voices” out. It’s a disturbing revelation that says a lot about Revok’s power and determination. Ironside plays the scene with a sadistic calm as if self-trepanning is normal and easy. That alone would’ve successfully sold how dangerous the Scanners could be. Luckily Cronenberg expanded the character and gave Ironside a larger role to play in the battle to take down ConSec and lead a new generation of Scanners.