James Gunn is driving an R-rated Clayface horror film at DC Studios, marking a dramatic shift in how the studio approaches its superhero stories. On a path towards a September 11, 2026 release, DC Studios aims to bring audiences a film rooted in body horror and creative risk, signaling a break from the formulaic superhero movies of the past.
The initiative comes after years of inconsistency in the DC Comics cinematic universe, punctuated by the underwhelming performance of several recent releases. When Warner Bros. tried to build their extended universe beginning with Man of Steel, they mirrored Marvel Studios without establishing a cohesive vision. Films that experimented with genre, such as Shazam! and The Suicide Squad, often received critical acclaim but struggled to find mainstream box office success. By 2023, the trend continued with four consecutive flops, convincing leadership to push for a creative restart. Now, DC Studios, under the direction of co-head James Gunn and his partner, is emphasizing diverse, boundary-pushing storytelling intended to both excite and surprise audiences.
Inside the Creative Process: A New Take on Clayface
During an in-depth discussion on the DC Studios Showcase Official Podcast, James Gunn provided details about the evolving vision for upcoming DC properties. He addressed fan speculation about Robert Pattinson playing Batman in the DC Universe, and then discussed two major future projects: Lanterns and Clayface. Gunn revealed that the pitch for the Clayface film came unexpectedly, but left a strong impression.
Clayface was not something that we intended,
—James Gunn, Co-head of DC Studios
But, Mike [Flanagan] came in with a pitch for Clayface that was like, ‘Whoa, that is so cool.’ And then he wrote the screenplay and fulfilled doubly on that promise… if we had gotten the script as a horror movie, not being a part of the DCU at all, it’s like this amazing body horror film that we would jump at the chance of making.
—James Gunn, Co-head of DC Studios
This collaboration with Mike Flanagan, known for his expertise in horror, has shaped Clayface into an R-rated spectacle that stands apart from typical superhero fare. Gunn emphasized that, even removed from the comic book universe, the script works as a captivating body horror narrative with broad appeal, not just for genre fans but for anyone drawn to unpredictable cinema experiences.
Committed to an R-Rated Vision
James Gunn’s filmmaking portfolio reveals a consistent appreciation for embracing the R-rating. He penned Dawn of the Dead in 2004, took on directing duties for Slither and Super, and produced titles such as The Belko Experiment and Brightburn. His entry into the DC Universe, 2021’s The Suicide Squad, leaned heavily into its R-rated status, delivering heightened violence and darker humor.
It’s rated R, yeah… the NPA has to watch it, but it’s most likely rated R.
—James Gunn, Co-head of DC Studios
This confirmation from Gunn has ignited excitement among followers and horror film fans. The creative leadership intends Clayface to fully inhabit the possibilities offered by a mature rating, embracing disturbing visuals and intense themes that might otherwise be restricted.
Production Developments Point to Swift Progress
Recent updates from DC Studios suggest the Clayface project is advancing rapidly. The script is under revision, and the casting of Tom Rhys Harries in the lead role hints at the film‘s creative direction. Shooting is expected to begin in earnest in order to meet the announced autumn 2026 premiere. This urgency indicates both high expectations at the executive level and a desire to push DC properties in a bold new direction.
Tom Rhys Harries emerging as the film’s titular character brings anticipation for a fresh portrayal that goes beyond the traditional depiction of Clayface. Fans of body horror and darker superhero stories are watching closely as DC Studios embraces novel approaches, showing willingness to experiment as they rebuild their cinematic universe.
The Wider Impact: Redefining the DC Cinematic Universe
The move to create an R-rated Clayface horror film under James Gunn’s leadership sends a signal that DC Studios is determined not to repeat past mistakes. Instead of chasing the familiar Marvel formula, Gunn is charting a new course, favoring original pitches from creators like Mike Flanagan and exploring cinematic terrain previously left unexplored by superhero franchises.
As audiences await the arrival of Clayface in 2026, both fans and industry observers are eager to see whether this daring project can attract moviegoers and critics, potentially setting a new benchmark for what superhero cinema can achieve. With Gunn at the helm and a renewed focus on innovative storytelling, DC Studios looks ready to introduce a very different—and possibly trailblazing—chapter to its legacy.
