Filipino fans of horror and science fiction will soon get the chance to experience YouTube superstar Markiplier’s highly anticipated film Iron Lung, which is officially set to screen in Philippine cinemas as part of its expanding global theatrical release.
The confirmation came directly from Markiplier—real name Mark Fischbach—during a recent livestream, where he announced that the Philippines would be included in the next wave of international screenings alongside Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The announcement follows the film’s strong global debut, with Iron Lung earning an estimated USD 21.7 million during its opening weekend—an impressive return for a production reported to have cost around USD 3 million.
Iron Lung marks Markiplier’s feature-film directorial debut and is a self-financed adaptation of the 2022 indie horror game created by David Szymanski. The film premiered theatrically on January 30, 2026, and has since screened in multiple international markets. Its rollout has been driven largely by fan demand and direct coordination with cinema operators, rather than traditional studio-backed distribution.
In the film, Markiplier assumes an unusually expansive creative role, serving as lead actor, writer, director, producer, editor, and financier. Set in a dystopian future following a catastrophic event known as the Quiet Rapture, the story follows a convict tasked with piloting a claustrophobic submarine—the “Iron Lung”—as it descends into a vast ocean of blood on an abandoned moon.
Markiplier’s livestream announcement quickly sparked excitement among Filipino viewers and genre fans. As of this writing, local cinema chains have yet to release official screening dates or venues. However, online fan communities are actively monitoring updates and reaching out to exhibitors in hopes of securing local showings.
While Iron Lung did not initially appear on major Philippine cinema schedules, its confirmed inclusion in the regional rollout has heightened expectations that an official announcement is forthcoming.
The independent success of Iron Lung highlights the growing influence of creator-driven filmmaking in the global cinema landscape. Without the backing of a major Hollywood studio, Markiplier leveraged his massive online following to secure a wide international release. Despite mixed critical reception, the film has been widely cited as a notable achievement in independent horror, particularly for its financial performance and unconventional production model.
As Philippine audiences await further details, Iron Lung’s arrival underscores both the rising impact of digital creators and the continued appetite for bold, genre-driven films led by distinctive creative voices.