Markiplier's 'Iron Lung' is a welcome return to grindhouse sci-fi films of the '90s
Space.com
by Jeff Spry February 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Markiplier’s directorial debut, *Iron Lung*, has emerged as an unexpected hit in the indie sci-fi horror scene. The film, based on David Szymanski’s 2022 video game of the same name, follows a convict named Simon who explores a blood-filled ocean on a desolate moon using a rusted submarine called the Iron Lung to uncover clues about a mysterious cosmic event known as "The Quiet Rapture." This event has left humanity nearly extinct and the stars vanished. Despite its modest $3 million budget, *Iron Lung* has achieved significant success, expanding from a limited release to playing on over 4,000 screens worldwide.
The film pays homage to the gritty, low-budget sci-fi horror of the 1990s, drawing comparisons to works like Richard Stanley’s *Hardware* and Vincenzo Natali’s *Cube*. Directed by YouTube megastar Markiplier—best known for his gaming streams and commentary—the movie showcases Markiplier’s ability to transition from gaming personality to filmmaker. His debut not only captures the eerie atmosphere of the source material but also expands its story into a cinematic experience, blending suspenseful pacing with unsettling visuals of underwater creatures, scattered remains, and Lovecraftian horror.
For fans of space-themed media, *Iron Lung* offers a unique perspective on cosmic mysteries and humanity’s quest for survival. Set in a post-apocalyptic universe where the stars have vanished, the film explores themes of isolation and existential dread while delving into the unknown depths of a desolate moon. The claustrophobic setting and eerie underwater environment create a palpable sense of tension, immersing viewers in Simon’s harrowing journey to uncover the truth behind "The Quiet Rapture."
While *Iron Lung* occasionally falters with pacing issues and an ambiguous climax, its strengths lie in its bold storytelling and atmospheric direction. The film’s cinematography and score contribute to its unsettling tone, creating a haunting experience that lingers long after the credits roll. As a low-budget indie success story, it highlights the potential of independent filmmaking and proves that compelling sci-fi horror doesn’t always require massive studio
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Originally published on Space.com on 2/13/2026