YouTube star Markiplier is set to direct and star in a film adaptation of horror video game Iron Lung. The game, created by David Syzmanski, features an unnamed character tasked with canvassing a distant planet’s ocean of blood from the safety of the Iron Lung, the titular miniature submarine. Iron Lung, which first hit the PC in early 2022, has received positive reviews for its minimalist presentation, claustrophobic atmosphere and immersive sound design.
According to Deadline, influential YouTube gamer Markiplier will be directing and starring in a film adaptation of Iron Lung, which is based on a script he penned. The movie has started production in Austin, Texas and will be funded by Markiplier himself. The film will also star Caroline Rose Kaplan. Accompanying the news is an image of the YouTuber in the film and a teaser from Markiplier himself, which can be viewed below:
What To Expect From Markiplier’s Iron Lung
Markiplier’s development of an Iron Lung film isn’t the first time he’s been involved in video game projects involving submarines and underwater exploration. In 2021, a Markiplier doll was featured in Subnautica, which players could get by completing certain tasks in the game. In comparison, the YouTuber’s upcoming Iron Lung adaptation is a major leap forward for his seasoned involvement in gaming.
Iron Lung is a game that relies on visual minimalism and obscured story elements to invoke a feeling of dread in players. The lonely hopelessness of the player’s mission coupled with the tight space of the Iron Lung makes for a discomforting horror experience. Given the trailer’s accurate recreation of the eponymous submarine, it appears Markiplier will be ensuring that flavor of terror in the game is translated to the screen.
It appears adaptations of independent horror games are on the rise, with Five Nights at Freddy’s releasing in October this year. This also extends to independent online horror in general, with a film adaptation of Kane Pixels’ The Backrooms YouTube series going into production this summer. With Markiplier dedicated to making Iron Lung a faithful, terrifying experience, he just might open the door for other independent horror stories to get a feature film treatment.
Source: Deadline, Markiplier
