Here’s my Iron Lung review, which opens February 25 and is distributed locally by Encore Films Philippines, starring Youtuber Markiplier.
This film is based on the cult-hit game of the same title created by David Syzmanski who also plays co-director together with Mark Fischbach aka Markiplier. Check out the trailer below:
Film’s like these are very interesting because it gives us several things. One is that it provides viewers with a POV style film which also examines an aspect of the human mind and the emotion, how twisted or how good it is. Secondly when the set is mostly shot or played out in one area (which in this case is inside a submarine plunged to the depths of an ocean of blood) then you know that there’s going to be some catharsis here and there. Third it will draw out some of the darker philosophical questions people often ask.
That’s exactly what the movie version of Iron Lung entails.
The bonus fact that it was lifted from a popular PC game is really to sweeten the deal.
Here are several other stuff that I loved/liked about Iron Lung:
- That set was just awesome. From the moment they teased that online, I knew that it was going to be good. It also did a great service in trying to look like it jumped out of the game, especially at the start and towards the end.
- Markiplier as Simon captures the essence of the players playing the game. For me, he nailed everything from the initial frustration, his tired outlook and later his resignation about his fate. It really feels like Fischbach took home the assignment and worked on it until the next day.
- The creep factor for the film was insane, thanks to the brilliant editing sound design, and musical scoring. Not only does it follow the theme that the Iron Lung game provided they elevated it to the next level, givingthe audience that ever-present sense of dread.
- I also loved the fact that while there were monsters in that ocean of blood, it took a backseat. The film didn’t really delve deep into that horror aspect or play with people’s Megalophobia. Rather it chose to play with the psychological horror of isolation. As we see throughout the film, Simon begins hallucinating and hearing things that may or may not be there. Add the creepy fact that he is alone thousands of feet underwater with something prodding and bumping into his submarine.
The ending was also pretty good if you ask me. While it only scratched the surface of the deep lore, Simon’s story wraps up properly in this film.
Overall, I thought Iron Lung was a satisfying adaptation of the indie game. It has the right amount of blood and gore, has great character beats and Markiplier really showed his love for the material. Watch the film if you want something different, if you want a good gaming related film and if you’re a big fan of Markiplier.
“Iron Lung” opens February 25 and is distributed locally by Encore Films Philippines!
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