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Markiplier’s Self-Distributed Iron Lung Opens on 4,000+ Screens With Strong Early Box Office

Fan requests turned a planned limited run into a wide release, making the sub-$3 million indie a high-upside test for creator-led films.

Overview

  • The film launched on approximately 4,164 screens worldwide, including about 3,000 in the U.S., after exhibitors responded to organized fan demand.
  • Early commercial signs include roughly $6 million in presales and $3.5 million from Thursday previews, with North American opening projections around $9–10 million.
  • Audience reaction is highly positive with a Rotten Tomatoes score reported around 92–93%, while critics offer mixed reviews citing strong atmosphere but issues with pacing and editing.
  • Mark Fischbach self-financed, wrote, directed, edited, starred in, and self-distributed the adaptation of David Szymanski’s 2022 indie game, keeping costs reportedly under $3 million.
  • In the U.K., distribution sources said Iron Lung led Friday ticket sales, underscoring the title’s fan-driven momentum across multiple markets.