The Quiet Rapture, Welded Inside a Dream: The Loud Impact of How Iron Lung Changed Everything
Abigail Martha
February 6th, 2026—I think I was around eight years old when I started watching YouTube. I’m twenty-four now, and am still an active viewer on the platform.
The content creators there, in a sense, helped raise me into the dreamer that I am today. The love, dedication, and passion that went into these channels and videos were admirable, and way before content creation was ever considered to be a job that one could obtain if they were popular, and consistent, enough. I remember begging my father to let me create an email while on a beach trip with my family, just so I could subscribe to my favorite YouTuber.
Mark Fischbach, better known as Markiplier online, paved the way for many online creators, taking his passion and turning it into something that gave him a long-lasting career. Mark is mainly known for his “let’s plays,” usually surrounded by horror-genre video games, and his tie to the Five Nights at Freddy’s franchise, and so much more. He tried his hand in his own series, surrounding himself as the main protagonist, launching them as YouTube originals on his channel called “A Heist with Markiplier” and “In Space with Markiplier.” These interactive and audience-heavy stories launched Mark into a new realm of creation–the art of building a story.
Three years ago, I remember watching Mark play a game called “Iron Lung.” The premise, in short, is that you are a convict character, welded inside of a submarine called, well, you guessed it: the Iron Lung. You are lowered down into a sea of blood, on a planet that has emerged out of nowhere after many, including Earth, disappeared from space, the only survivors being those that were on space stations, after what is known as “The Quiet Rapture.” As this convict, you are tasked to learn more about the life hidden inside this red ocean, and to take pictures as you navigate without vision, and only coordinate directions alone. The video was about forty minutes long, and I thoroughly enjoyed watching Mark get lost and crash into walls, and thought nothing of it when the video was over.
That is, until later, when Mark announced that he was adapting the game by David Szymanski into a movie. One that he was self-financing, filming, editing, and starring in.
For the next few years leading up to January of 2026, I watched Mark float in and out of the YouTube space, anticipating this movie’s release that was coming, only having his word of its promise alongside the rest of his audience. I watched what he still posted, listened to him speak about the movie’s development in stages, and barely believed when I saw on my phone in December of 2025 that it was finally coming out in the new year.
But it wasn’t only that. It was the fact that this indie film Mark made, a film that he poured over 3 million dollars of his own savings into, a movie that was only supposed to be in sixty theaters in the United States, was now being shown in over 2,500 in the United States. That number would grow, exponentially, world-wide, and would seat him above popular production companies like Disney and Universal, placing him at the #1 movie in the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. All because his audience believed him, and called theaters in their area to show and pick up the movie. And it worked. People wanted to see it. They wanted to support him and his hard work.
On January 31st of 2026, I got dressed in my Markiplier merch, and dragged my family along with me to go see it in Lititz, Pennsylvania.
I won’t spoil the movie for you. That is not what this article was about. I thought it was great, not only because it was a well-done film in terms of plot, technique, and skill, but because it was by Mark. My rating of it is ultimately biased because of my appreciation for the public figure that he is, and the inspiration this film has brought me.
Mark paved the way yet again, for small artists like myself.
The road is not always well-traveled, especially when you have dreams of creating something big. Mark’s influence turns that ideal upside down, and on top of its head. It is so hard to get a movie into theaters that is not through a big production company, and Mark and his audience were able to do just that. This strive, and belief and power of audience itself, not only proves its importance in a career of anything creative, but also just shows the human interaction felt by something so loved before it even is viewed by the people who believe in the man who created it. Mark’s dream, passion, and drive speaks to anything that is created through heart, and to anyone who has a dream to make something bigger than themselves. Leaving the theater, it had me inspired for my own work. It made me dream bigger. It made me see myself in the reflection of someone who I look up to, thinking, “if he can do something like this, why can’t I?” Mark’s influence on the world of creativity became a quiet rapture in and of itself, breaking records and leaving viewers with their hands stained in passion, perhaps even accomplishing something he never thought he could through his work on this movie.
With the film, also came a lot of good. On the Iron Lung website, Mark was linking places where people could go and give blood, tying the movie to a cause that creates good in a world that sometimes feels so heavy, especially in the climate those in the United States are experiencing. With the shortage of blood donating to hospitals, Mark turned his passion bloody film into a blood drive, and made something good out of something that was already great.
Iron Lung, as of right now, is not the number one movie in the United States, but its influence will never be forgotten by Mark, his fandom, and those inspired by his journey. It has exceeded seven times its reported budget of $3 million, and grossed over $21.5 million globally in its opening.
The film is still in theaters, at least for the next week, and has shocked Hollywood by competing with big-budget studio films, in a way that has changed the industry forever, and given hope to many creators.
A great review by Hbomberguy: https://letterboxd.com/hbomberguy/film/iron-lung/
Donate blood: https://ironlung.com/blood (You can also do so by any blood drive in your area!)
You can learn more about the film and creator here: https://ironlung.com/
A picture of me taken at the theater. I’m wearing my CLOAK merch from Mark’s clothing brand. Many of my fellow viewers in the theater did the same.
Can You Hear Me?
Miriya Nicole
November 10, 2025 - Was there ever a time where you felt voiceless?
“When the whole world is silent, even one voice becomes powerful.”— Malala Yousafzai
Candy J. Cooper, in her book Shackled argues that kids are wrongfully and unfairly punished for minor actions. Her research demonstrates that she used examples of stories to show what crimes children have committed. The argument speaks to the public about the larger issue of judges who did not allow children or families to speak, but instead harshly punished the children. Similar to Elizabeth Hable, a real person who is in the novel Shackled, I experienced a moment of voicelessness when I was trying to talk to my parents about mental health and what I’m dealing with.
In that moment I felt silenced and invisible as if my words had no weight. This happened when my parents dismissed what I was trying to tell them. They often tell me it’s Satan that is in my head, and that it’s Satan's work, and that the demons are just trying to bring me down to hell with them, that it’s just a consistent battle between “good and bad.”
In that moment, I chose to respond by walking away, believing it was the most appropriate course of action given the circumstance. My decision was influenced by feeling like I was ignored and like they didn’t really care even though they said they did. I don't think they understand what I go through on a daily basis. However, this response led to certain consequences, such as a worse feeling manifesting inside of me.
Just like a character in the novel, I felt silenced when talking to my parents. Reflecting on the outcome, I gained a deeper understanding of how I tend to respond in situations where I feel silenced, and this experience has since influenced how I navigate similar challenges in everyday life, still struggling with talking in relation to the fear of being judge.
Deep Breaths, Friends: Holding Steady When the World Feels Wobbly
Kara Reed
October 24, 2025 - Let’s be real—life feels messy right now. The news is heavy, everyone is wrestling with strong opinions, and it’s impossible to stay focused when it feels like reality is shifting around us. As a college student, you’re already juggling classes, deadlines, and the million other stresses of everyday life, so how do you maintain your balance when everything around you feels chaotic?
Here are a few simple ways to preserve your peace in the midst of chaos.
1. Develop a Simple, Intentional Routine:
Routine doesn’t have to be fancy—just something that gives your day a little shape. Maybe it’s a morning coffee ritual, taking a short walk between classes, or listening to your favorite playlist on your way to school. These small routines remind your brain that life still has rhythm and predictability. The world might be loud, but your morning treat or watching an episode of your favorite show before bed can become your “calm in the storm.”
2. Find (And Lean On) Your People:
When things feel uncertain, human connection matters more than ever. Chat with friends who understand you, spend time with family (even if it’s just a quick call), or hang out with classmates who make you laugh. When the world feels divided, you can focus on building small, kind connections in your everyday life. Community doesn’t have to be big or formal—it just has to be real. Even exchanging a smile with your favorite barista can help you feel connected.
3. Take Breaks from the Noise:
It’s okay to not be available to everyone all the time. Take a break from your phone; the endless scroll of news and social media can make everything feel even heavier. Try setting some limits, check out a reputable news source once or twice a day, or take a couple of hours in the afternoon to unplug completely. Go for a walk, bake something yummy, draw, meditate, nap—whatever helps you relax and recharge. The world will still be there when you get back, but you’ll be in a better headspace to face it.
Finding Your Balance:
You don’t have to have it all figured out. Staying grounded isn’t about ignoring what’s happening—it’s about giving yourself enough stability to keep going. Shift your focus away from what you can’t control and focus your mind on the things you can do for yourself to add structure and routine, because let's be honest; familiarity feels safe. Life can feel overwhelming, but you can still create small moments of peace, connection, and happiness wherever you are.
Return to Your First Love
Estela Melendez
April 14, 2025 - This is your cue to reconnect with your first love. When you truly care for someone, it transcends their past. He loves you for who you truly are. Don't hesitate- reach out to him now, while there's still time, before it's too late. I'm not referring to your ex; I’m talking about the one who loved you before you entered this world. His love was so profound that he sent his own son to forgive our sins, granting us the chance for eternal life (John 3:14; Matthew 1:21). The fact that you’re reading this now is a blessing bestowed upon you today. You are here for a purpose; he isn't finished with you yet. We all have made mistakes in our lives, and it's part of being human. Perfection is unattainable, which is why God gifted us Jesus, providing everyone the opportunity for salvation and a fresh start. Yet, seeking him, repenting, and changing your path is ultimately your choice. Act now while you still can (2 Chronicles 7:14; Isaiah 55:6). Don’t allow past mistakes to deter you from reaching out to him. Each moment we hesitate about following him or clinging to our habits is precious time wasted. When we repent and choose to follow him, as soon as we believe and accept him, we receive the promise of the Holy Spirit's seal (Ephesians 1:13). Therefore, I urge you to use your time thoughtfully and cherish your first love. Similar to your relationship with your significant other, the deeper you connect with him, the more you will find yourself in love. So how do we forge this connection? Through the Word. Everything is contained within the Word (the Bible). This Word enriches our relationship with him, and he imparts much wisdom through it. Many are familiar with God, yet few truly know him. If it is meant to be, perhaps returning to your ex is a possibility. But remember the wisdom found in Scripture: “Like a dog that returns to his vomit is a fool who repeats his folly” (Proverbs 26:11). Don’t make the same mistakes again.
Consider joining a club of like-minded individuals; click the button and learn more about RACC’s Christian Network Club.
Discover More of Reading
Ashley Hernandez
November 7, 2024- “There is nothing to do in the city of Reading.” “I can’t wait till I leave Reading.” At one time, I shared these thoughts, and maybe you have as well. However, we may be underestimating our ability to contribute to our community and enforcing a belief that we have the power to change. The city of Reading has seen so much growth and redevelopment within the last 10 years. There are more lights on Penn Street, they are building a STEM school, they are expanding affordable housing in Oakbrook, hiring police social workers to assist with mental health-related 911 calls, and the list goes on. There is still so much work that has yet to be done, but I invite you to help in any way you can. Contributing to our community is possible in a variety of ways, but here are just a few: If you have a car, you can deliver groceries to the elderly through the organization Berks Encore. If you have time after school or your 9-5, you can volunteer in Big Brothers & Sisters of Berks County by playing with and mentoring children. You can organize your neighbors and plan a community cleanup with the help of Public Works. If you are interested in being involved in local government, you can join a board and attend city hall meetings. By helping our community, we can also help ourselves. When I started volunteering by leading art workshops in the Iron Playground, I was able to build my resume for teaching art. Eventually, someone from Barrio Alegria, a local art non-profit, referred me to the amazing opportunity of being an artist-in-residence at Millersville University. I am grateful that someone from the GoggleWorks, another local art non-profit, eventually noticed me and recommended that I teach there. Currently, I am an art teacher at the GoggleWorks and enjoy the benefits of working in the After School Arts Program. Unintentionally, I was networking and building meaningful relationships by publicly doing the work that makes me enthusiastic. Through all these experiences, I improved my social anxiety, self-esteem, sense of purpose, and life direction. I have met others who found their voice as an artist or activist, who now travel for work because they allowed their intuition to guide their life journey. I am grateful to have met them and others who contribute to the necessary work within our community. I encourage you to learn more about local organizations and participate where you feel aligned. You may discover a version of yourself and a Reading you never knew existed.
Democrats are Losing the Latino Vote. Why?
Zharick Quintana
October 25th, 2024 - DISCLAIMER: the opinions expressed in this article belong to the people interviewed and do not reflect the ideas and or beliefs of the Front Street Journal or Reading Area Community College.
It's 2 weeks before the 2024 presidential election, the Democrats are losing their usual prominent demographic. Latino and black voters are losing their faith in the democratic party and are switching over to Trump and his policies on issues like immigration and the economy. Here, I speak with two members of the community to understand why they disagree with the democrat's plans.
1. What do you think the Democrats are doing wrong?
Person 1:“Everything, I believe that from the start, the Biden administration has been doing everything wrong. Inflation, the economy, the price of food is way too high. The country's economy is horrible. When I gained citizenship back in 2010, I registered as a Democrat. I voted for Obama in 2012, Clinton in 2016, and Biden in 2020, but now I am planning on voting for Trump.”
Person 2: “In my opinion, they messed up. Letting all these undocumented immigrants in. It's a mess.”
2. What turned you away from the democratic party?
Person 1: “The economy, at least during the trump administration, the economy was at least stable. And it feels like the Biden administration is giving away too many benefits to undocumented immigrants, instead of giving those benefits to hard-working Americans, they give it away to people who haven't worked a day in this country. This government hasn't done anything to stop the influx of migrants, so I agree with what Trump says that if they came in legally into the country, there would be no issue; he doesn't have any problems with them working like every other documented immigrant in this country, but these people come in, these narcotraffickers, killers, rapists, they come in, and they take away resources from us, working people who add to society, they come here, and they take the little resources that they give us (that for me isn't anything), they come in, and they take away services that could benefit our children who were born here to give it to migrant children, that's what I disagree with. You first have to aid those who are adding to society, the citizens, and give them priority. “
Person 2: “I think the Democrats are too focused on being on good terms with other countries regardless of whether it harms them. They should be focusing on their own country and its citizens. “
3. Besides the economy and immigration, are there any other reasons why you won't vote blue?
Person 1: “It feels like this government hasn't done anything in the four years.”
5. What are some things the Democratic Party could do to sway your vote?
Person 1: “No. I don’t think there's nothing they can do”
6. Do you agree with Trump's plans for other things, such as his abortion bans and tariffs?
Person 1: “I believe in the abortion bans; I feel like it is wrong to abort a kid, even in cases of r-pe.”
Person 2: “Trump's plan concerning abortion, I disagree with. It should be the woman’s right to choose what to do with her body.”
Caring About the Planet Sucks, but We Need to Care
Nicholas Fulwood
April 4, 2024 - When confronted with the state of the environment, there are a relatively limited number of possible responses. Most people begin with outrage (or denial), and this outrage is perfectly understandable and even beneficial. However, maintaining this outrage can be very difficult; there’s only so much we can care about before we wear ourselves ragged.
However, before we even begin to worry, investigating further is a natural response to finding out we’re in trouble. I’ve found myself tumbling down rabbit holes after looking into carbon footprints and the origins of greenwashing. After doing even a tiny amount of research, people will quickly realize the sheer enormity of the environmental problems we’re facing, and as time passes, the issues only compound. Most of us know that as the icebergs melt, the oceans rise, displacing some of our largest communities (both human and animal). Still, the icebergs also reflect sunlight out of our atmosphere, so as they melt, our planet absorbs more heat, which only accelerates the problem. It can feel like we’re already drowning in the problem.
Once the scale of the problem is revealed, people’s reactions begin to differ. Some folks might dig their feet in, roll up their sleeves, and do as much as possible to save the planet (these are the cool people). However, this is not the most common reaction, or else we’d have a much safer planet to live on by now. So, instead, many folks look for the small changes they can make to their lives to assuage their panic. This is an entirely understandable reaction, especially with the many problems we see today; life is hard, and nobody can fight every fight, especially when they need to pay bills and stay sane. Unfortunately, it’s too late for everyone to make small changes.
This isn’t to say that small changes are pointless, but they’re not enough on their own. Even if everyone started recycling and driving EVs, that recycling wouldn’t end up where it needs to, and those EVs would still rely on fossil fuels to be produced. Consumers can’t solve the problem because consumers didn’t create the problem; the oil companies created this problem.
So how do we solve the problem then? Especially while still being able to live our lives? This is where I should discuss RACC’s Environment Club and Sustainability Taskforce. Getting involved and showing the people hurting our planet that we’re willing to sacrifice our time and effort to protect ourselves, our children, and our grandchildren is essential to change things. Speaking from experience, it often helps lessen my anxiety when thinking about the planet, knowing that I helped clean up our river or saw a fellow citizen realize the problem and how they can help.
If you cannot spend that time, you can always do other things. When voting, research the candidates and try to vote for those who care about the environment. If you have the means, donate to an environmental activism organization or even volunteer with them. And don’t be afraid to tell people about the state of our planet and how you might feel about it. Communication is always the first step to solving problems; we certainly have much to solve.
As oil companies continue to manipulate society to maintain their growth rate, recycling and being frugal with our electricity will not be enough; we will need to start urging more significant changes if we want where we live to continue to be habitable. Protecting and restoring the planet will be difficult, but it gets easier with help.
The Front Street Journal is always looking for talented writers, artists, designers, social media managers, and business managers. If you’re interested in joining, email Jodi Greene (club advisor) at jgreene@racc.edu or Angela Caldero-Pérez (editor) at ac65234@ravens.racc.edu.