From gaming chair to director’s chair: Markiplier’s Iron Lung

May 2022: Markiplier plays Iron Lung

Markiplier first uploaded his playthrough of Iron Lung in May 2022, as a part of his “Let’s Play” series of horror games, a staple on his YouTube channel. At the time, the indie title created by David Szymanski was going viral for its simple but intense concept. Players control a lone convict trapped inside a small submarine navigating a blood ocean on an alien moon. The game was known for its claustrophobic atmosphere, limited visibility, and psychological tension.

Millions of viewers watched Markiplier play Iron Lung and pushed the game into the spotlight. He praised the game for its claustrophobic setting and eerie atmosphere. It became one of the most memorable horror playthroughs on Markiplier’s channel in 2022.

March to April 2023: Film rights and first teaser

In March 2023, Markiplier revealed a major update on his YouTube channel announcing that he had acquired the rights to adapt Iron Lung into a feature film, and it shocked the internet. In April 2023, the first teaser trailer of Iron Lung was released. He had previously worked on interactive YouTube projects such as A Heist with Markiplier and In Space with Markiplier, but this would be his first time directing a full length film.

April 2023: Filming wrapped and delays

Through his channel, Markiplier shared production updates. He confirmed that filming had begun and posted behind the scenes photos of the submarine set built for the movie. He explained that he wanted to keep the claustrophobic feeling of the game while expanding the story to fit better on film.

By April 2023, Markiplier confirmed that filming had wrapped, but due to the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strikes, the release of Iron Lung would be delayed. Post production continued afterward, with the creator balancing editing work on the movie alongside his regular YouTube uploads. The final trailer for Iron Lung was released on December 2025.

The timeline from May 2022 to the completion of filming by April 2023 shows how quickly the project moved forward. From a single Let’s Play video to a full film adaptation in just over a year. The real challenge began when the film moved into theatrical distribution. Iron Lung is an indie film going up against box office juggernauts for its place in theaters.

January 2026: Film release and box office performance

Iron Lung had a strong opening weekend, grossing $18.2 million, nearly double than the projected $9-10 million. As of February 22nd, Iron Lung grossed $40 million in United States and Canada, and a total of $50 million worldwide – a truly impressive feat for an indie film.”

Iron Lung represents a full circle moment for Markiplier. From sitting in a gaming chair reacting to an indie horror title to stepping behind the camera as a director, the project marks a major shift in his career. It proves that YouTubers, who spent a long time with camera work can become successful film directors.

Iron Lung will premiere in Philippine cinemas on February 25.