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The DC Universe is expanding into darker territory with Clayface (2026), an upcoming body horror film based on one of Batman’s most iconic villains. Directed by James Watkins and produced by DC Studios, the film combines horror, tragedy, and superhero storytelling into what could become one of the most unique DC movies ever released.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Movie Title | Clayface |
| Release Date | October 23, 2026 |
| Director | James Watkins |
| Screenplay | Mike Flanagan, Hossein Amini |
| Story By | Mike Flanagan |
| Based On | Characters from DC Comics |
| Starring | Tom Rhys Harries, Naomi Ackie, David Dencik, Max Minghella, Eddie Marsan |
| Music By | Volker Bertelmann |
| Cinematography | Rob Hardy |
| Edited By | Jon Harris |
| Budget | Approx. $40 Million |
| Distributor | Warner Bros. Pictures |
Clayface is an upcoming American body horror film set within the new DC Universe (DCU). The story follows Matt Hagen, a rising actor whose face becomes horribly disfigured. Desperate to save his career, he seeks help from scientist Dr. Caitlin Bates, whose experimental procedure transforms him into a shape-shifting creature made entirely of clay.
Unlike traditional superhero films, Clayface focuses heavily on horror elements, psychological trauma, and tragic character development.
Watch the official teaser trailer below:
Warner Bros. Pictures has officially scheduled Clayface for release on October 23, 2026 in the United States.
The release was moved from September to October to take advantage of the Halloween season, making it a perfect fit for the film’s horror-focused tone.
Matt Hagen’s journey begins as an ambitious actor whose future is destroyed after suffering severe facial disfigurement.
Seeking a cure, Hagen turns to Dr. Caitlin Bates, whose experimental treatment initially appears successful but ultimately transforms him into a horrifying clay-based lifeform.
DC Studios has described Clayface as a body horror film inspired by classics such as The Fly, emphasizing disturbing physical transformations and psychological suffering.
The lead character whose tragic transformation drives the story.
A scientist whose experimental procedure changes Matt Hagen forever.
A Gotham City detective connected to the central storyline.
Appears in an undisclosed role.
Appears in an undisclosed role.
While most comic book movies focus on action and spectacle, Clayface aims to deliver a deeply emotional and horrifying character study. With a modest budget and a strong creative team, the film has the potential to become one of the most critically acclaimed DC projects in years.
Clayface (2026) looks set to become one of the most unique entries in DCU Chapter One: Gods and Monsters. Combining horror, tragedy, and comic-book mythology, the film offers a fresh take on a classic Batman villain.
For fans of psychological thrillers, body horror, and DC Comics, Clayface is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated releases of 2026.
Clayface is scheduled to release on October 23, 2026.
Tom Rhys Harries stars as Matt Hagen / Clayface.
Yes. The movie is officially part of DCU Chapter One: Gods and Monsters.
The film is directed by James Watkins.
Yes. DC Studios has described the project as a body horror film inspired by The Fly.
