Clayface Trailer Unveils DCU’s Horror-Filled Batman Villain Debut

DC Studios and Warner Bros. have released the first trailer for Clayface, a new film set to redefine the horror elements of the DC Universe. The trailer debuted on Wednesday, just seven days after its exclusive unveiling at CinemaCon.

The footage showcases a stark contrast to the typical tone of DC films, fully embracing the disturbing nature of Batman’s villain Clayface. James Gunn confirmed the trailer’s release on X (formerly Twitter).

Plot and Cast

The film stars Tom Rhys Harries as Matt Hagen, an actor on the verge of a career breakthrough. After a brutal attack by a gangster leaves him disfigured, Hagen seeks a transformative treatment—only to gain powers far beyond his expectations. The trailer depicts disturbing scenes of Hagen hospitalized, intercut with flashes of his former life as a rising star.

As his powers spiral out of control, Hagen’s face and body begin to deteriorate. The trailer culminates in a chilling shot of Hagen in a bathtub, struggling to maintain his form, before revealing his face as completely featureless.

Crew and Production

James Watkins directs Clayface, with a screenplay co-written by Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini. Joining Harries in the cast are Naomi Ackie and Max Minghella.

The film marks the third project in the fledgling DC Universe, following Superman and the upcoming Supergirl. It represents a bold move, pairing two of DC’s iconic heroes with a horror-focused solo film centered on a lesser-known Batman villain.

Clayface’s Legacy in Batman’s Rogues’ Gallery

Clayface is one of Batman’s most significant villains, first appearing in Detective Comics #40 (1940), created by Bob Kane and Bill Finger. This debut introduced Basil Karlo, the original and most prominent version of the character, who was an actor by trade.

The second major incarnation, Matt Hagen, debuted in Detective Comics #298 (1961), written by Finger and drawn by Sheldon Moldoff. Hagen’s origin involves shapeshifting powers derived from a radioactive pool in a cave. Over the years, multiple versions of Clayface have appeared, including Preston Payne, Sondra Fuller, Cassius “Clay” Payne, and Todd Russell.

Despite his significance in Batman’s lore, Clayface has never been adapted into a live-action film, making this project a long-awaited milestone for fans.

Release Date and DCU Expansion

Clayface is set to hit theaters on October 23. The film follows the DCU’s recent expansion, which began with Superman and will continue with Supergirl. It joins a growing list of Batman villains receiving solo projects, including Joker, Catwoman, and The Penguin, whose HBO series earned critical acclaim and multiple Emmy wins.