James Gunn shares Clayface DCU movie update as new details emerge about the highly anticipated film scheduled for release in 2026. The movie, directed by James Watkins, will feature Tom Rhys Harries as Clayface, marking a fresh addition to the roster of Batman villains in the revamped DCU lineup.
R Rating Confirmed for Clayface Film
During an appearance on the DC Studios Showcase Official Podcast, Gunn revealed that the upcoming Clayface film is expected to carry an R rating. The director hinted at the movie‘s intense tone, noting its probable rating and the reasons behind it.
“I mean, it’s not anything now, because the MPA has to watch it,”
—James Gunn.
“But it’s most likely rated R. It’s pretty intense.”
—James Gunn. This designation separates Clayface from previous DCU entries, emphasizing the film’s darker and more mature themes.
Origins and Creative Vision for Clayface
Gunn discussed how Clayface was unexpectedly added to the DCU plans after Mike Flanagan pitched his unique vision for the project. The screenplay, also shaped by Hossein Amini, quickly impressed producers with its originality.
“Clayface was not on our [initial] checklist. But Mike [Flanagan] came in with a pitch for Clayface that was like, ‘Whoa. That is so cool.’ Then he wrote the screenplay and fulfilled doubly on that promise. The thing about Clayface that’s so cool is that Peter [Safran] and I, back when we were producing horror movies — The Belko Experiment, all these things — I’m like, ‘If we had gotten the script as a horror movie, not being part of the DCU at all.’ It’s like this amazing body horror film that we would jump at the chance to make. It’s just a great horror movie that is a great, smart, fun, fun horror movie in a genre that I happen to love, body horror.”
—James Gunn
The creative team brings considerable experience to the project, with Gunn and Peter Safran joined by The Batman’s Matt Reeves and Lynn Harris as producers. Chantal Nong is on board as executive producer, ensuring high-level oversight, while Hossein Amini’s background adds further depth to the script. Watkins, who previously directed films such as Eden Lake and Bastille Day, is expected to bring a distinctive horror edge to the DCU through Clayface.
Clayface’s Place in the Expanding DCU
The release date for Clayface is set for September 11, 2026, in theaters across the United States, distributed by DC Studios and Warner Bros. Pictures. The film aims to expand the DCU’s range by focusing on one of Batman’s most formidable and unusual antagonists. Key entities like Gunn, Flanagan, Safran, and Matt Reeves, alongside talent such as Tom Rhys Harries, are contributing to this new chapter.
Before Clayface, audiences can expect the Superman film to debut on July 11, 2025, followed by Supergirl on June 26, 2026. As the universe builds momentum, the approach to Clayface signals a willingness to experiment with genre and ratings, setting fresh expectations for future DCU releases.
The anticipation surrounding the Clayface movie, strengthened by its all-star writing and production team, aligns with the DCU’s evolving vision. With a focus on body horror and a strong R rating, this Batman villain’s story marks a bold direction for superhero movies in theaters nationwide.
