Get ready, DC fans, because the universe is stepping into uncharted, terrifying territory! We’re officially getting Clayface, a horror-inspired spinoff centered on one of Batman’s most iconic, shapeshifting villains.
Slated for a 2026 release, the film marks an intriguing addition to James Gunn and Peter Safran’s vision for the new DC Universe! Though it was initially announced back in January 2023, Clayface is now officially moving forward.
How “Clayface” Came to Be: A Pitch Gunn Couldn’t Refuse
In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, producer James Gunn revealed how this project came to life. What fans can expect, and how the infamous shapeshifter will finally be integrated into the newly rebooted DC Universe. Yes, folks, Clayface is now confirmed as a part of Chapter 1!
Gunn is no stranger to the weird, the wild, and the unexpected. From Slither to Guardians of the Galaxy to “Peacemaker,” his career has been built on turning unlikely characters into household names. However, he admits he didn’t initially see Clayface coming.
Gunn recalled how horror filmmaker and writer Mike Flanagan reached out with a passionate pitch.
“He texted me about it really early on in my DC journey,” Gunn shared. “Just being honest, I did not think that was something that was going to happen. But he came in and pitched the idea, and I was like, ‘Oh s***! That’s cool.’”
Body Horror Meets DC
Flanagan’s approach promises to turn Clayface’s tragic tale into a full-blown body horror story. This film will take a bold, creative direction rarely explored in big-budget comic book movies.
“It’s a horror movie that, like any cool body horror movie, just happens to be in the DCU,” Gunn added. He explained how Flanagan’s script was compelling enough to warrant immediate development. “The first script was great, and then this new draft is even better…. The movie’s definitely getting made.”
One of the most interesting revelations is how this Clayface, directed by James Watkins (Speak No Evil), will integrate with the rest of the DCU. When asked if this would be the same version of Clayface seen in the upcoming animated series “Creature Commandos,” Gunn teased, “I think that everyone will find that out.” Intriguing!
Rumors suggest the film will follow a B-movie actor who, in desperation, injects himself with a mysterious substance, only to mutate into the monstrous Clayface.
Behind the Camera
Mike Flanagan is no stranger to horror. He brought you the hit series “Haunting of Hill House” and multiple Stephen King adaptations, including the recently released movie Life of Chuck.
Tom Rhys Harries has been announced as the first cast member for the film, now in pre-production. Harries is best known for his roles in movies like The Gentlemen and series such as “Suspicion” and “White Lines.”
Who is Clayface?
Clayface is a virtually indestructible shapeshifting monster who threatens Gotham City. He’s a skilled and dangerous shapeshifter. Clayface is a complex and multifaceted rogue who oozes in and out of different roles with the fluidity of the mud that comprises his body. Numerous beings have held the name Clayface, including a victim of a tragic accident and a criminal who unlocked the secrets of magical clay to grant himself superhuman powers. Hisstory is constantly evolving and pulling new people into the muck and mire. With a total of eight different characters officially holding the mantle at one time or another, knowing just whom—and what—to expect from a Clayface can be a tricky affair. Virtually indestructible, criminally devious, and brilliant at improvisation, even the most harmless-looking incarnations of Gotham’s resident mud-based monster represent a massive potential threat—one that Batman must grapple with regularly to keep his city safe.
Get ready for a unique, terrifying, and very Flanagan-esque addition to the DC Universe when Clayface arrives in 2026! This is definitely not going to be your average superhero flick.
