DCU Clayface Movie: Everything We Know About It So Far

The DCU Clayface Movie has begun filming in Liverpool, England, igniting a wave of excitement and speculation among DC fans. This R-rated body horror thriller, slated for release on September 11, 2026, promises a chilling reimagining of one of Batman’s most complex villains.

Directed by James Watkins and penned by horror maestro Mike Flanagan, the film is already generating buzz with its confirmed cast and intriguing set details.

Fans are also abuzz with theories about the plot, its place in the DC Universe (DCU), and whether Batman will make an appearance, with names like Jensen Ackles, Alan Ritchson, and Brandon Sklenar frequently mentioned in fan casting discussions for the DCU’s Dark Knight.

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of everything we know so far.

Highlights:

• Filming Location: Production kicked off in Liverpool, England, in August 2025, with scenes shot in Derby Square and at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden.

• Cast and Crew: Tom Rhys Harries stars as Matt Hagen/Clayface, joined by Naomi Ackie and Max Minghella, with James Watkins directing and Mike Flanagan writing.

• Plot Details: The story follows Matt Hagen, a disfigured actor turned shapeshifting monster, inspired by Batman: The Animated Series’ “Feat of Clay.”

• DCU Connection: Part of the DCU’s Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, set in Gotham but separate from Matt Reeves’ The Batman universe.

• Release Date: Set for a theatrical release on September 11, 2026.

What Is the Plot of the DCU Clayface Movie?

The DCU Clayface Movie centers on Matt Hagen, a struggling actor who moves from Gotham to Hollywood to escape his past. After a brutal attack leaves him disfigured, his career collapses, leading him to a fringe scientist, played by Naomi Ackie, who transforms him into the shapeshifting Clayface.

The narrative blends elements of Hagen’s and Basil Karlo’s comic book origins, drawing heavily from the “Feat of Clay” episodes of Batman: The Animated Series. Described as a body horror thriller in the vein of David Cronenberg’s The Fly, the film promises a tragic, R-rated exploration of Hagen’s descent into monstrosity.Original characters, including Caitlin Bates, a biotech CEO, and her fiancé John, a Gotham detective played by Max Minghella, anchor the story.

A new crime boss, not a known DC villain, serves as the primary antagonist, keeping the focus on Hagen’s personal tragedy rather than superhero spectacle. This standalone approach aims to deliver a fresh, horror-driven take on the iconic villain.

Why Is Liverpool Ideal for Gotham’s Dark Atmosphere?

Liverpool’s historic, gritty architecture makes it a perfect stand-in for Gotham City, a choice previously utilized in Matt Reeves’ The Batman. Filming began in August 2025, with key scenes shot in Derby Square, where the Law Courts building doubles as Gotham Hospital.

Set photos reveal Gotham-themed elements, including a distinct Gotham City Police Department (GCPD) car with a black-and-white design, setting it apart from the vehicles in Reeves’ universe.

This visual distinction reinforces the film’s place in the DCU, separate from The Batman’s Elseworlds continuity.Additional locations, such as the former Merseyside Police headquarters, enhance the film’s dark, urban tone.

Set photos also highlight the Gotham City Courthouse motto “Sic Parvis Magna” (Greatness From Small Beginnings), a detail shared with The Batman and the Arkham games. While some fans speculate this could hint at a connection to Reeves’ universe, it’s more likely an Easter egg, as the DCU and Elseworlds projects remain distinct.

Will Batman Appear in the DCU Clayface Movie?

A major question surrounding the DCU Clayface Movie is whether Batman will appear, especially given the fervent fan casting discussions for the DCU’s Dark Knight. Names like Jensen Ackles, known for voicing Batman in animated projects and his role in The Boys, Alan Ritchson, celebrated for Reacher and his DC roles in Titans and Smallville, and Brandon Sklenar, praised for his work in 1923, dominate fan speculation for The Brave and the Bold.

However, James Gunn, DC Studios co-chief, has emphasized that Clayface is a standalone horror story within the DCU, not tied to Matt Reeves’ grounded Batman saga.

The distinct GCPD vehicle designs and the absence of familiar DC characters in the plot suggest Batman is unlikely to feature prominently.

Some fans theorize a cameo, perhaps a silhouetted appearance like Batman’s brief role in Creature Commandos, could introduce the DCU’s Batman. However, Gunn has debunked casting rumors for The Brave and the Bold, stating no actor has been chosen yet, as the script remains unfinished.

Given Clayface’s fantastical shapeshifting powers, which don’t align with Reeves’ non-metahuman world, a Batman appearance seems improbable, keeping the focus on Hagen’s origin story.

Who Are the Key Creative Forces Behind the Film?

The DCU Clayface Movie boasts an impressive creative team. James Watkins, director of Speak No Evil, brings a horror sensibility, while Mike Flanagan’s script infuses the project with his signature psychological depth, inspired by his love for “Feat of Clay.”

Tom Rhys Harries leads as Matt Hagen, with Naomi Ackie as the scientist responsible for his transformation and Max Minghella as a Gotham detective. Eddie Marsan, spotted on set, is rumored to play Hagen’s manager, though his role awaits confirmation.

Matt Reeves produces alongside James Gunn and Peter Safran, but his involvement doesn’t connect the film to his Batman universe. Hossein Amini’s script rewrite adds further nuance to Flanagan’s vision, ensuring a chilling, character-driven horror-thriller.

The R-rating signals a bold, mature approach, appealing to both DC fans and horror aficionados.

How Does Clayface Fit into the DCU’s Broader Vision?

As the third film in the DCU’s Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, following Superman (2025) and Supergirl (2026), Clayface showcases the franchise’s commitment to diverse storytelling.

Gunn has stressed that each DCU project stands alone while contributing to a cohesive universe, with Clayface introducing Gotham City to the DCU before The Brave and the Bold. Set photos hint at minor connections, like the mention of a drug called “bliss” from The Penguin, but these are likely stylistic nods rather than direct ties.

The film’s horror focus and original characters set it apart, potentially laying groundwork for future Gotham-based conflicts. Fan casting for Batman, including Ackles, Ritchson, and Sklenar, reflects excitement for the DCU’s Dark Knight, but Clayface’s standalone nature suggests it will carve its own path without relying on established heroes.

What Can Fans Expect as Production Continues?

With filming underway, the DCU Clayface Movie is shaping up to be a groundbreaking addition to the DCU, blending body horror with Gotham’s gritty atmosphere.

Its stellar cast, visionary director, and Flanagan’s haunting script promise a fresh take on a classic villain.

As production progresses in Liverpool, fans can anticipate more set photos and plot details, fueling speculation about its connections to the DCU and the ever-popular Batman casting debates.

Mark your calendars for September 11, 2026, when Clayface transforms theaters into a nightmare-inducing spectacle.