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Markiplier’s Iron Lung Expands to 2,500 Theaters With Strong Presales Before Jan. 30 Release

A direct-to-fan campaign turned a self-distributed YouTuber project into a wide theatrical test of influencer power.

Overview

  • Deadline reports opening-weekend forecasts around $9 million to $10 million, with some distribution insiders suggesting it could land higher.
  • Presales are rumored to be well north of $5 million, though the figures are unattributed and analysts caution about front-loaded demand.
  • Exhibitors report rapid sellouts, with Western Film Services saying showtimes were gone within minutes or even seconds after going on sale.
  • Major chains AMC, Regal and Cinemark booked the film after Markiplier urged fans to contact theaters, with international play reported in roughly 220 Australian and 210 UK locations.
  • Iron Lung opens against Send Help, projected near $14 million, and Jason Statham’s Shelter, projected at $8 million to $10 million.