Iron Lung (2026) is a U.S. science fiction cosmic horror film. It is written, directed, edited, financed, and starred in by Mark Fischbach (Markiplier).
The cast includes Caroline Rose Kaplan and voice roles from Seán McLoughlin, Troy Baker, and Elsie Lovelock.
The film is set in a profoundly grim, post-apocalyptic future following a catastrophic cosmic event known as “The Quiet Rapture.” This event caused all known stars and habitable planets in the universe to suddenly and mysteriously vanish, leaving the last remnants of humanity clinging to survival on decaying space stations.
The central plot begins when the ruling body, the “Consolidation of Iron,” makes a shocking discovery on a desolate, barren moon designated AT-5: an ocean of blood. Desperate for resources, they launch a dangerous exploratory mission. The protagonist, a nameless convict (Mark Fischbach), is the one forced to pilot a barely functioning, poorly constructed midget submarine, nicknamed the “Iron Lung,” into the depths of this horrifying ocean. Due to the crushing pressure, the forward viewport of the submarine has been permanently welded shut with metal.
The convict must navigate the blood ocean using only rudimentary instruments, a map, and a lo-fi camera feed to photograph strange anomalies, with the promise of freedom if successful. However, the mission quickly descends into a terrifying, claustrophobic ordeal, making it feel less like an expedition and more like an execution as he encounters the ominous and often monstrous inhabitants of the bloody depths.
Iron Lung Age Rating
Iron Lung is rated R for language, bloody images, and some gore. The R rating means the material is intended for adults and likely unsuitable for children. The film’s confined setting and intense imagery contribute to its mature classification. Parents should assume strong horror content when considering the film.
Violence & Peril
The film features intense, claustrophobic peril throughout. Physical violence is primarily implied or seen indirectly through damaged equipment and creature encounters. There are bloody images and at least some on-screen gore tied to creatures and the environment. The sustained tension, isolation, and body-horror elements create a sustained, disturbing atmosphere.
Language
Language is repeatedly strong and adult in tone. Frequent profanity appears during stress and confrontations. There are no indications of repeated slurs as a narrative device, but the dialogue is blunt and explicit. Expect language that reinforces the film’s harsh, survivalist mood.
Mature Themes
Iron Lung explores bleak themes: punishment, coercion, survival, and existential dread. The convict’s moral ambiguity and the mission’s exploitative promise of freedom are central themes. The film uses body-horror and cosmic dread to unsettle viewers. Smoking, substance use, or sexual content are not central to the premise described, but the overall tone is explicitly adult.
Is Iron Lung Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not suitable. The film’s claustrophobic horror and bloody images are inappropriate for this age. The sustained fear and gore can be emotionally damaging to preteens. Do not show to children in this tier.
Ages 13–15: Not recommended. Younger teens may find the imagery terrifying and confusing. The film’s intensity and darkness exceed typical teen horror comfort levels. Parental restriction is advised.
Ages 16–17: With guidance. Mature older teens who handle intense horror might view it with a prepared parent. Parents should pre-screen and discuss the film’s themes and tone first. Even older teens may find the atmosphere deeply unsettling.
Final recommendation: Iron Lung is best suited to adults aged 18+. The film’s R rating and sustained cosmic claustrophobia place it clearly in adult viewing territory.
What Parents Can Do
- Pre-screen the film yourself. If you find the mood oppressive or the imagery disturbing, do not let teens watch it.
- Prepare a short explanation before viewing. Explain isolation, survival pressure, and the film’s intended horror style.
- Discuss after viewing. Talk about fear responses and separate cinematic effects from real danger.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the official age rating for Iron Lung?
A: Iron Lung is rated R for language, bloody images, and some gore.
Q: Is Iron Lung appropriate for kids or teens?
A: No for younger kids and most teens. It is intended for adult viewers.
Q: How scary or violent is Iron Lung?
A: The film is intensely scary, claustrophobic, and contains bloody images and some gore.
Q: Does Iron Lung contain strong language or slurs?
A: Yes. The dialogue contains frequent strong profanity tied to stress and danger.
Q: Is there sexual content or nudity?
A: Sexual content is not central to the plot as described. The film’s maturity comes from horror and violence.