I’m not usually a big fan of horror. It can make it difficult for me to sleep, and I get more enjoyment from media in other genres. But I do make exceptions on occasion if it’s something that captures my attention for some reason.
“Iron Lung,” written, directed by and starring YouTuber Mark Fischbach (Markiplier), is an interesting, horrific cinematic experience. Based on the 2022 video game of the same name, the film follows Simon, a convict who is forced into the titular submarine to explore an ocean of blood on a moon. I’ve been following this project for some time, as I like Fischbach’s online content and was excited to see what this movie would entail.
The universe has gone through the “Quiet Rapture,” in which all stars and planets disappeared, leaving humanity struggling to survive. Simon reluctantly complies with his task of taking pictures of strange anomalies, if only so that he can come back alive. But as he navigates the depths, Simon slowly unravels as he learns the truth about the expedition and the danger he’s in.
As adaptations naturally do, additional plot points were added that were not present in the original game. This adds more to the world, giving it a sense that there is a lot going on that the characters are trying to grapple with in their efforts to save humanity after the “Quiet Rapture.” Simon isn’t just contending with mindless monsters looking to eat him. He’s facing a force with an agenda all its own that will do anything to achieve it.
The set design was impressive not just in its accuracy to the original game, but in its atmosphere. The tight, claustrophobic space is unsettling and adds to the horror of the situation Simon is in. He is stuck miles deep, and there’s nowhere to run if his life is in danger.
The best aspect of the film is the growing dread. You know that Simon is not going to make it, even if you haven’t played the game. He is doomed, but the suspense of what exactly will happen — and how — keeps you on edge the entire time. There are so many ways everything could go wrong, and it is enrapturing to watch in the state of anticipation and dread this movie creates.
Fischbach’s acting was very good, though that wasn’t too surprising given his track record of strong work in other projects and appearances. Simon is remarkably relatable and sympathetic throughout the entire movie, even after the horrible details and acts in his backstory are revealed. He did awful things, but he just wants to get out alive. And considering what he goes through, it’s no surprise that he’s so desperate.
I did not anticipate the blood sequence at the end being so disgusting, but it was still great filmmaking. The action and drama ramp up as Simon scrambles to survive just long enough to complete his final task. The production could not have been easy, and it is impressive what was accomplished to make it look so realistic and horrifying.
The movie has a long runtime at 127 minutes. There were a few moments in the first third that probably could have been trimmed to quicken the pace, but ultimately that is the point. Time passes achingly slowly for Simon, as he doesn’t know how long his mission will take or how much time he might have left. He and the audience are left to sit in the dread of the uncertain time limit and worry about what might happen next.
“Iron Lung” is a unique film and an impressive display of Fischbach’s acting and filmmaking skills. Ever since it was announced, I was curious to see it. With the success of this movie, Fischbach has broken through and shown traditional media what he and other creators like him are capable of. I’m hopeful this will herald a new wave of inventive, groundbreaking movies.
