James Gunn Reveals Why Clayface Belongs in the DCU, Not Batman

James Gunn and Peter Safran have shared exciting details about the upcoming Clayface movie, slated for a September 11, 2026 release. The film will be part of the DCU and receive an R rating, confirming its more mature tone. Clayface, known for his shape-shifting abilities, will feature an origin story set in a body horror framework, diverging from the grounded approach of Matt Reeves' Batman universe. Gunn emphasized that this film will lean into psychological horror, aiming to provide a unique and terrifying take on the character. Filming is expected to begin this summer, with Mike Flanagan penning the screenplay and potential director James Watkins in negotiations.

The Clayface movie is expected to explore themes of horror and body transformation, presenting a psychological and terrifying narrative that strays from traditional superhero elements.

Clayface, a classic Batman villain, first appeared in Detective Comics #40 in 1940. Known for his ability to shapeshift, Clayface has often been depicted as a tragic character with a rich backstory, making him a compelling choice for exploration in a horror-centric film. His character has evolved over the years, with various iterations adding depth to his psyche and motivations, which will likely play a critical role in the upcoming movie.