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Iron Lung (film)

Iron Lung is a 2026 American independent science fiction horror film written, directed by, edited by, produced by, and starring Mark Fischbach (Markiplier).

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Iron Lung is a 2026 American independent science fiction horror film written, directed, edited, produced by, and starring Mark Fischbach (Markiplier). It is based on the 2022 video game Iron Lung by David Szymanski and follows a convict sent into a blood-filled ocean on a distant moon after a cosmic catastrophe known as the Quiet Rapture. The film was released in theatres in January 2026 and later on streaming in 2026.

Premise

The film is set in a post-apocalyptic future after the Quiet Rapture, when nearly all stars and habitable worlds vanish. Humanity survives aboard ships and space stations while a convict is sent to investigate a moon covered by an ocean of blood.

Production

Iron Lung is a low-budget independent film adapted from the video game of the same name. Mark Fischbach served as writer, director, editor, producer, and lead actor, marking his feature-length directorial debut.

Release

The film opened in theatres on January 30, 2026 and was later made available for streaming on May 31, 2026.

Reception and significance

The film drew attention because it adapted a cult horror game and because of Fischbach’s transition from online creator to feature filmmaker. Coverage of the movie emphasized its claustrophobic atmosphere and survival-horror premise.

Key facts

  • It is a feature-length adaptation of the 2022 indie video game Iron Lung.
  • Mark Fischbach, known online as Markiplier, made his feature-length directorial debut with the film.
  • The story centers on a convict named Simon who is sent to pilot a submarine through a moon’s ocean of blood.
  • The film’s setting follows a disaster called the Quiet Rapture, which causes stars and habitable planets to disappear.
  • Caroline Rose Kaplan appears in the cast in a supporting role.

Frequently asked questions

What is Iron Lung movie about?
It is about a convict forced to pilot a small submarine into a moon-wide ocean of blood after a cosmic disaster called the Quiet Rapture, while searching for clues that may help humanity survive.
Who directed Iron Lung movie?
Mark Fischbach, better known as Markiplier, directed the film.
When is Iron Lung movie coming out?
The film was released theatrically on January 30, 2026 and streamed from May 31, 2026.
Is Iron Lung movie based on a true story?
No. It is based on the fictional 2022 video game Iron Lung by David Szymanski.
Who stars in Iron Lung movie?
Mark Fischbach stars as the convict, and Caroline Rose Kaplan also appears in a supporting role.
What is the plot of Iron Lung?
After the Quiet Rapture, a prisoner named Simon is sent to explore a desolate moon’s blood ocean in a sealed submarine called the Iron Lung, with his freedom promised if he completes the mission.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iron_Lung_(film)
    Supports: Basic film identity, director, premise, and adaptation source.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27564844/
    Supports: Premise and post-apocalyptic setting.
  3. Collider — https://collider.com/iron-lung-teaser-trailer-cast-crew-plot-markiplier/
    Supports: Director, cast, plot details, and Mark Fischbach’s role.
  4. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/iron_lung
    Supports: Release dates and synopsis.
  5. Keith & the Movies — https://keithandthemovies.com/2026/02/04/review-iron-lung-2026/
    Supports: Plot details, cast, and setting.