“Iron Lung”: A YouTuber’s Passion Project Exhibiting the Power of Independent Filmmaking

The "Iron Lung" movie title outside Roosevelt Theatre in Hyde Park. Photo by Lilian DeFilippis '26

Mark Fischbach, recognized by his online persona of popular YouTuber Markiplier, branched out from online content creation by leading his first feature-length film released Jan. 30. An adaptation of the 2022 horror game of the same name, both created and published by game developer David Szymanski, “Iron Lung” adapts the source material onto the silver screen.

“Iron Lung” sets itself within a universe devoid of stars, habitable planets and a few remnants of humanity left to survive.

The protagonist, a convict, is sent in a submarine to venture into a sea of blood located on a desolate moon. As he digs further into its depths, the confines of the space inflict psychological torment on the protagonist, leaving him to question what lies ahead on his journey.

Serving as director, producer, writer and lead actor of his own film, Markiplier leaves audiences with a larger story beyond a successful filmmaking debut.

While acknowledging the triumph of the film, earning multiple domestic screenings across theaters, along with facing massive financial success since its opening weekend, “Iron Lung” represents the nuanced power of independent filmmaking, a film that sparks inspiration in its audience in addition to its creative vision. But how does the film hold up as Markiplier’s introduction to the field of filmmaking?

Immediately catching the viewer’s eye is the visual presentation of “Iron Lung,” conveyed through diverse cinematography and condensed set design. There are a variety of illustrative, creative shots that explore the condensed submarine setting, along with effectively placing the audience in a discomforting setting of isolation.

The set design of the submarine embodies this visual isolation, establishing the limited tools of the vessel as the protagonist’s only support in navigating the unknown. The atmosphere is heightened through the usage of these visual ideas and the fundamentals of the film’s setting, leaving the audience to theorize what possibly lurks within the deep red sea.

A brief note of praise is the film’s atmospheric sound design, complementing the setting and emphasizing the dreadful isolation. Whether it be an ominous sound from outside the submarine or the soundtrack overwhelming certain sequences, these slight touches in audio help elevate these moments.

While serving as the director behind “Iron Lung,” Markiplier also stars as the film’s protagonist, Simon. Being the front and center character of the narrative from start to finish, Markiplier delivers a satisfying lead role through the emotion and nuances of Simon’s character.

Credit is also due for the many elements and ideas added on top of the narrow source material. The significant additions to the expanded lore behind “Iron Lung” add its own unique distinctions separate from the game, displaying the creative passion that goes above and beyond a basic film adaptation.

Where “Iron Lung” faces major stumbles lies in the runtime; spanning just over two hours compared to the one hour length of the original game. This extended duration can feel slightly padded out, using long, repetitive shots and a slow-paced first act to fill up the time. This extra fluff could have arguably been left out on the cutting room floor.

Previously complementing the original ideas and elements brought into “Iron Lung” through Markiplier’s creative vision, there are also additions that feel insignificant in the aggregate.

While the cast is expanded compared to the source material, they are mostly relegated to voice actors without adding much substance to the story or world-building as a whole. Moreover, certain revelations presented within the middle and back half of the plot don't lend themselves enough clarity or definition, largely becoming afterthoughts in the broad narrative as the film progresses.

While these points stand out as the major holes within the film’s final cut, this should not serve to discredit the ambition or the clear passion invested in the production of this independent project.

Providing a twist on the sub-genre of psychological horror through a unique, creative experience, “Iron Lung” explores the tangible fear of the unknown through its visual design, overwhelming atmosphere and layered narrative. Where it lacks in-depth characters and undercooked plot points, the newly introduced elements highlight the positives over the negatives.

However, at the center of the film is a story of wisdom and encouragement; a project originating from as an independent production before accomplishing a widespread domestic release. Markiplier shows audiences what is possible and how his effort and resilience paid off in distributing his very first piece. The existence of “Iron Lung” is a message of inspiration over entertainment, backing the field of independent filmmaking and serving as a role model for all rising filmmakers.