Iron Lung Review: Markiplier's Sci-Fi Horror Fails to Launch
Online gaming sensation Mark Fischbach, better known to millions as Markiplier, has made the leap to the big screen with Iron Lung, an independently financed sci-fi horror film he wrote, directed and stars in. The film has arrived in multiplexes with minimal traditional promotion, relying instead on the built-in audience of Fischbach's substantial online following.
A Paradigm Shift in Cinema Distribution
This release strategy underscores a significant cultural shift toward digital-first content creation and distribution. Iron Lung feels emblematic of this transition, presenting a viewing experience that some might compare to an extended, immersive session on platforms like Twitch, rather than conventional cinematic storytelling.
The film adapts Dave Szymanski's space-submarine simulation game of the same name, placing Fischbach's character, a straggle-haired convict named Simon, in a claustrophobic craft on a vague intergalactic mission. The setting—a begrimed, squalid submarine—bears an unfortunate resemblance to a dishevelled teenage bedroom, limiting visual interest from the outset.
Narrative Shortcomings and Pacing Issues
Despite the novel source material, the plot quickly becomes familiar territory, echoing themes of astronauts in over their heads seen in films like Moon, albeit with considerably less polish. Simon staggers through his confined environment, completing nebulous tasks—ramming objects, making repairs, downloading data—with the weary determination of someone tackling a mundane chore list.
Critically, the film suffers from leaden pacing, a depressive tone, and a near-total absence of cinematic spectacle. It often feels like a radio play that has been awkwardly visualised, constantly telling the audience about events because the production has little of visual interest to show them directly.
Performance and Production Limitations
Fischbach demonstrates a steady presence before the camera, holding centre stage for over two hours—a feat requiring significant commitment, even for someone with a pronounced case of Main Character Syndrome. His co-stars are relegated to voice-only roles, further emphasising the film's solitary, confined atmosphere.
However, the dramatic heavy lifting required to expand a short film's worth of plot into a full-length feature proves beyond the current production's capabilities. The entrepreneurial spirit behind getting the film into cinemas is notable, even perversely admirable, but it cannot compensate for the fundamental narrative and technical shortcomings.
Final Verdict
While Iron Lung may interest dedicated Markiplier fans and those curious about the evolving intersection of online content and traditional cinema, it ultimately fails to deliver a compelling or cinematically satisfying experience. The film highlights the challenges of translating a popular online persona and a niche game concept into a successful feature film. As one critic noted, even fellow YouTuber MrBeast's stunts at least get participants outdoors; Iron Lung remains stubbornly, stiflingly interior in both setting and ambition.
Iron Lung is currently showing in cinemas.
