Iron Lung - Wow, It's Actually Good!

Overview

This review delves into Iron Lung, a low-budget independent horror film directed by and starring YouTuber Markiplier. The film is praised for its inventive storytelling, atmospheric tension, and strong lead performance, despite some pacing issues and a stretched runtime. It stands out as a bold and creative entry in the underrepresented genre of cosmic horror.

Notable Quotes

- Iron Lung is a risky, wildly inventive concept, setting up an interesting and creative premise that allows it to make the most of limited resources and constantly keeping you guessing about where it's all heading.

- Credit to the guy, he pulls off a surprisingly strong, compelling performance as a desperate man pushed to his mental and physical limits with the vague promise of freedom at the end.

- Cosmic horror is a genre that's been chronically underrepresented in cinema, so it's nice to see a film tackling it in a unique, inventive way like this.

🎥 The Premise and World-Building

- Set in a future where humanity faces extinction after an event called the Quiet Rapture causes stars and planets to vanish.

- The protagonist, Simon, a convicted felon, is tasked with piloting a submersible into an ocean of blood on a distant moon to gather data that might save humanity.

- The film leans into its mysterious, Lovecraftian tone, leaving many questions unanswered, such as the origins of the blood ocean or the rationale behind Simon's mission.

🧠 Creative Choices and Atmosphere

- The film uses an X-ray camera mechanic to depict the protagonist's surroundings, a clever workaround for budget constraints that enhances the claustrophobic tension.

- The narrative builds on themes of isolation, paranoia, and human perseverance, amplified by the protagonist's deteriorating mental state and hallucinations.

- The minimalist approach, with a single actor and confined setting, creates a unique, immersive experience but risks crossing the line between tension and monotony.

🎭 Markiplier's Performance

- Markiplier delivers a surprisingly strong performance, carrying the film as its sole actor.

- His portrayal of Simon captures the desperation and psychological strain of a man on the brink, earning praise for avoiding the pitfalls of vanity projects often associated with YouTubers-turned-filmmakers.

- Financing and starring in his own film was a risky move that ultimately paid off, showcasing his artistic ambition.

⏳ Pacing and Runtime Challenges

- The film's 2-hour runtime feels stretched, particularly in the second act, where the lack of plot progression and additional characters slows momentum.

- While the claustrophobic setting is integral to the story, it occasionally veers into tedium, making the film feel like a short concept extended beyond its ideal length.

- Despite these issues, the finale regains momentum, leaving a lasting impression.

🌌 Cosmic Horror and Innovation

- Iron Lung stands out for its commitment to cosmic horror, a genre rarely explored in cinema.

- Unlike other independent horror films, it avoids overused tropes, instead embracing a bold, original concept that prioritizes creativity over convention.

- The film's success highlights the potential for independent filmmakers to take risks and tell unique stories, even with limited resources.