New set photos from the DC Universe’s upcoming Clayface movie have raised speculation about a potential Matt Reeves Batman DCU connection, as a small yet notable detail caught the attention of fans. These photos were revealed while filming took place on the streets of Liverpool, showing the lead actor Tom Rhys Harries in his role as Matt Hagen, also known as Clayface, alongside Max Minghella portraying a Gotham City detective. This subtle hint has fueled hopes among DC enthusiasts that Robert Pattinson’s take on Batman might intersect with James Gunn’s overarching new DC saga.
Set Details Reveal Shared Gotham City Symbolism Between Clayface and The Batman
One of the most significant finds in the leaked images is the Gotham City Courthouse motto “Sic Parvis Magna,” which translates to “Greatness From Small Beginnings.” This same phrase was prominently featured in Matt Reeves’ The Batman, suggesting a connection despite The Batman being part of the non-canonical Elseworlds and Clayface situated within the official DCU continuity. The motto’s appearance is stirring discussions about possible narrative or symbolic ties across these separate worlds. Fans also recognize the phrase from the Arkham video game series, adding layers to the interpretation of this detail.
“Clayface is using the same Gotham City motto that was used in Matt Reeves’ Batman. ‘Sic Parvis Magna’, meaning ‘Greatness From Small Beginnings’. It was also used in the Arkham games.” —Twitter User
However, the same source who highlighted this shared motto cautioned viewers against drawing definitive conclusions, stating,
“Please don’t take it as confirmation of anything DCU/Reeves,”
preemptively addressing heightened fan excitement about a crossover.
Fan Reactions and the Ongoing Debate over DCU’s Direction with Batman
The existence of two distinct Batman portrayals—Robert Pattinson’s in The Batman series and a new Caped Crusader set for the DCU’s The Brave and the Bold—continues to inspire division within the fandom. Recent online discussions, including those sparked by Peacemaker season 2, have made clear that some fans hope for integration between these universes despite official statements from DC Studios head James Gunn that such a merge is not planned. With the Clayface movie’s filming details surfacing during this period, anticipation and speculation about the future of Batman’s cinematic stories are intensifying.
Upcoming Releases and Casting Highlights in the DC Universe
Clayface is scheduled for release in theaters on September 11, 2026, with the film’s production involving an “exhaustive search” for the lead role, which impressed both James Gunn and Matt Reeves. Prior to Clayface’s premiere, Supergirl will hit cinemas on June 26, 2026, adding to the expanding slate of DC movies. Meanwhile, the Batman sequel featuring Robert Pattinson is slated for 2027, while The Brave and the Bold will introduce audiences to a different actor in the role of the Dark Knight within the DCU continuity.
As DC’s cinematic universe grows, these developments underscore the varying directions the franchise is exploring, creating an atmosphere of cautious excitement as fans await new storylines and connections to unfold.
