Review of Iron Lung: An In-Depth Analysis
Iron Lung has recently made its way into theaters, gaining significant attention due to its unique origins. Created by Mark Fischbach, popularly known as Markiplier, the film stems from his immense affection for the 2022 video game of the same name. Markiplier took on multiple roles in this project as he self-financed, wrote, directed, edited, and starred in the film. This ambitious undertaking, bypassing typical digital releases for a theatrical premiere, marks a noteworthy achievement.
Overview of Iron Lung
The story centers around a character known simply as “Convict,” played by Fischbach. Set in a dystopian future where stars and planets have disappeared, humanity’s last hope seems to lie beneath an ocean of blood on a deserted moon. The film largely follows Convict on his solitary mission in a little submarine named Iron Lung. His isolation is emphasized by limited interactions with voices communicating via radio.
Critique of Pacing and Engagement
Despite the intriguing premise, Iron Lung struggles with pacing and overall energy. Audience response indicates that the film often feels sluggish. The character’s tasks include turning knobs, observing screens, and making notes, which frequently fails to engage viewers. The runtime of two hours, largely consisting of monotonous scenes, leads to a feeling of restlessness early on.
Character Development and Performance
- Fischbach delivers a competent performance, maintaining a genuine presence.
- His portrayal includes a mix of calm moments and louder emotional outbursts.
- Key supporting voices come from actors like Troy Baker and Caroline Rose Kaplan, who portrays a sympathetic secondary character.
The film attempts to develop a connection between Convict and the voice he interacts with, but it often falls flat, detracting from the emotional depth that viewers might expect. Although some production design elements pay homage to iconic science fiction films, notably Ridley Scott’s Alien, the execution does not effectively build tension as intended.
Visual and Audio Elements
The film does include moments of strong visual design, continuing the game’s aesthetic, featuring retro-style digital displays and instruments. However, some sequences that aim for suspense merely echo earlier classics without delivering stakes or drama.
Final Thoughts on Iron Lung
As the story progresses, the final half hour introduces more action and noteworthy makeup effects. Iron Lung eventually delivers on the promised intensity and bloodshed, reminiscent of past horror films. Nonetheless, these late-game developments do not compensate for the lengthy buildup. The film might have been more effective as a short, allowing for a quicker experience that reaches its peak sooner. Additionally, Andrew Hulshult’s score, coupled with sound editing, enhances the atmosphere, suggesting that the audio elements played a critical role in maintaining viewer interest.
