Markiplier isn’t just making horror movies—he’s trying to rewrite how they’re distributed.

Earlier this year, the mega-popular creator made his feature debut with Iron Lung, a self-distributed adaptation of the indie game that went on to pull in an impressive $49.9 million at the box office. That success didn’t just put the film on the map—it positioned it among the top-grossing horror releases of the year.

But while the theatrical run made waves, fans are still waiting for the next step: when Iron Lung will hit digital, physical, and streaming platforms.

According to Markiplier, the delay isn’t accidental—it’s strategic.

In a recent update, he revealed that he’s been building something much bigger behind the scenes: a system that would allow not only Iron Lung, but other independent films, to be sold directly through YouTube.

Rather than simply uploading the movie like standard content, the goal is to tap into YouTube’s official Movies & TV marketplace—something that typically requires a third-party distributor or aggregator. Markiplier is essentially working to become that middleman himself, creating a pathway for indie filmmakers to sell and rent their work directly on the platform.

It’s a complicated process involving legal hurdles and backend setup, but he says it’s now in its final stages—meaning Iron Lung’s digital release could be right around the corner.

And that’s not the only unconventional move.

For physical media, Markiplier is going fully hands-on. Instead of relying on traditional distribution channels, he plans to produce DVDs and Blu-rays independently—reportedly using an automated system to manufacture copies himself and ship them directly to fans.

The film itself is based on the cult indie game created by David Szymanski, plunging viewers into a bleak sci-fi nightmare where the universe has gone silent—planets vanished, stars extinguished, and humanity left clinging to what remains.

At the center of the story is a convict sent on a one-way mission: piloting a sealed submarine into an ocean of blood on a distant moon. With no visibility and crushing pressure outside, survival isn’t guaranteed—but if the mission succeeds, freedom awaits.

If not, someone else will take their place.

Markiplier not only stars in Iron Lung but also wrote and directed the film, making this project as personal as it is ambitious.

Between its box office success and his push to reinvent indie distribution, Iron Lung might end up leaving a mark far beyond horror.

IRON LUNG IS GONNA BE AVAILABLW ON YOUTUBE MOVIES SOON and mark is working out a deal to help other youtubers get their movies on youtube as well!!!! pic.twitter.com/AiMkKtI0B3

— 𝕖𝕝𝕤𝕚𝕖 ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾ ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☁︎ (@_LOVERiplier_) April 21, 2026