The “Iron Lung” movie, a sci-fi horror film written, directed by, and starring YouTuber Markiplier (Mark Fischbach), is scheduled to hit U.S. theaters on January 30, 2026, after years of delays and post-production work . It is an adaptation of the 2022 indie horror game of the same name by David Szymanski, and will be Markiplier’s first feature film as a director and lead actor .
What the Movie Is About
“Iron Lung” is set in a post-apocalyptic future after an event called “The Quiet Rapture,” in which all known stars and habitable planets in the universe vanish . A convict is sent to explore a vast ocean of blood on a desolate moon, using a cramped, poorly built midget submarine nicknamed the “Iron Lung” . The story follows his claustrophobic, isolated journey as he searches for the missing stars and planets, facing psychological and physical horrors along the way .
Production and Delays
Filming for “Iron Lung” took place in Austin, Texas, and wrapped in early 2023 . Markiplier self-financed the project and took on nearly every major role: writer, director, producer, editor, and lead actor, with Caroline Rose Kaplan co-starring and Will Hyde and Jeff Guerrero producing alongside him . Production was delayed by the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike, since Markiplier is a union member, and post-production proved extremely demanding due to heavy visual effects and high-resolution footage .
Release Plans and Theatrical Rollout
The film is set for a U.S. theatrical release on January 30, 2026, according to IMDb and industry reports . Markiplier has emphasized that he wants “Iron Lung” to be seen in theaters and has turned down other distribution offers to ensure a proper cinematic run . Initial plans call for a limited rollout across 50–100 independent theaters in the U.S. over the opening weekend (January 30–February 1, 2026), with Markiplier self-distributing and working directly with cinemas .
Blood, Record Claims, and Marketing
Markiplier has repeatedly joked that “Iron Lung” contains more fake blood than any other horror movie ever made, claiming it holds a world record for the most blood used in a single film . During filming, he reportedly had to go to the hospital after getting too much fake blood in his eyes, underscoring the intense practical effects work . The marketing has leaned into this extreme, gory, claustrophobic tone, positioning the film as a visceral, immersive horror experience rather than a typical YouTuber project .
Where to Watch and Future Plans
As of now, there is no official word on streaming platforms or digital release dates; Markiplier has stated that the theatrical window is his top priority, and any online release will come later . Tickets for the U.S. theatrical run are expected to go on sale in early December 2025, with a premiere event planned at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Downtown in Los Angeles . Fans can follow Markiplier’s YouTube channel and the film’s official social media for updates on showtimes, international release plans, and potential home viewing options .
Sources
1. Markiplier's 'Iron Lung' Arrives After A Long Delay, Know ...
2. Iron Lung (film)
3. What Ever Happened to Markiplier's 'Iron Lung' Horror ...
4. Iron Lung (2026)
5. Iron Lung movie breaks world record with most blood ever ...
6. Iron Lung (film)
