Iron Lung is a horror movie that’s based on the popular video game of the same name, and it’s just received a rating that means kids in the UK can’t watch the film in cinemas.
The Iron Lung video game was created by Dave Szymanski, and immediately received acclaim for its psychological horror, which plays out in a submarine traversing an ocean of blood on a desolate moon.
Markiplier – aka Mark Fischback – has now turned that game into a film that he has written, directed, and stars in, and which premiered in the US last night.
The Iron Lung movie hits screens worldwide this weekend, but the YouTuber’s young fans won’t be able to see it in certain cinemas, due to a ruling by the British Board of Film Classification.
Why younger UK fans can’t watch Markiplier’s Iron Lung in cinemas
The BBFC has just awarded Iron Lung a 15 certificate, which means that no one under the age of 15 is allowed to watch the movie in theaters.
That rating is for “strong language, bloody images, and threat,” while the body’s guidance has awarded it 3/5 for violence, 4/5 for threat and horror, 4/5 for language, and 4/5 for injury detail.
In the US, the Motion Picture Association has awarded the movie an R rating, for “language, bloody images, and some gore.” But while that “R” means “Restricted,” the American guidance states that those under the age of 17 can view the movie, as long as they are accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.
If you want to know more about what to expect, here’s the official Iron Lung synopsis: “The stars are gone. The planets have disappeared. Only individuals aboard space stations or starships were left to give the end a name – The Quiet Rapture.
“After decades of decay and crumbling infrastructure, the Consolidation of Iron has made a discovery on a barren moon designated AT-5. An ocean of blood. Hoping to discover desperately needed resources, they immediately launch an expedition.
“A submarine is crafted, and a convict is welded inside. Due to the pressure and depth of the ocean, the forward viewport has been encased in metal. If successful, they will earn their freedom. If not, another will follow. This will be the 13th expedition.”
Iron Lung hits UK screens on January 29, 2026, and US screens on January 30, where you can 3D print your own bucket and show it in a Regal cinema to receive free popcorn.
