The DC Universe (DCU) continues to expand with fresh stories, and in 2025, the franchise redefined the Man of Steel alongside new interpretations of Mister Terrific and Green Lantern. However, Batman and his infamous rogues’ gallery remain absent from this evolving universe for now. Despite Matt Reeves’ highly anticipated The Batman Part II on the horizon, an unexpected Batman villain is set to premiere first with a distinctive approach, confirmed by James Gunn.
A New Batman Villain Will Lead the Next DCU Film
The third film in the ongoing DCU slate will focus on Clayface, a villain who has never before been featured in a full-length movie adaptation. This project arrives ahead of any Batman solo film within the DCU timeline, signaling a unique direction for the studio. Currently in production, the Clayface movie is shaping up as a radical departure from typical superhero fare, generating curiosity among fans familiar with the character’s comic book history.
James Gunn Highlights a Deeper Portrayal of Clayface
James Gunn, co-president of DC Studios, marked the anniversary of Clayface’s debut in Detective Comics with a social media post, stating:
“Happy Anniversary to the perennially misunderstood villain, Clayface. Can’t wait for you to see @TomRhysHarries bring him to life on the big screen!”
This message hints that Clayface’s film adaptation will explore a more complex, tragic side rather than presenting him as a straightforward menace. Gunn’s hint suggests the story might mirror the layered and psychologically driven tone seen in the 2019 Joker movie, positioning Clayface not merely as a monster but also as a character wrestling with his identity and circumstances.
The casting of Tom Rhys Harries as Clayface indicates that the film will be a character-driven piece bolstered by strong acting talent. The portrayal is expected to avoid clichés seen in earlier Batman villain adaptations, such as the over-the-top Bane in Batman and Robin, instead opting for a nuanced narrative that reflects Clayface’s tragic origins.
Origins of the Clayface Film Concept and Its Unique Production Path
This Clayface movie’s development owes much to a serendipitous sequence of events and visionary ambition. Mike Flanagan, creator of The Haunting of Hill House, initially pitched a Clayface project, inspired by the character’s depiction in Batman: The Animated Series, specifically the “Feat of Clay” two-part episode that focused on the sorrowful Matt Hagen version of the villain. Although Warner Bros. initially passed on the idea, a change in leadership at the studio reinvigorated interest. With James Gunn and Peter Safran now leading DC Studios, Flanagan’s pitch and screenplay were warmly received, allowing production to move forward.
Flanagan’s involvement signals the movie’s alignment with thriller and horror elements, a perspective he is known to employ in his work. Gunn has explicitly described the Clayface film as a horror movie, emphasizing that the transformation of Clayface will incorporate grisly and unsettling visual effects that differ significantly from typical superhero movies. This tonal choice also justifies the R-rating that the project is expected to carry, marking a bold move for the DCU toward more mature and intense storytelling.
An Unprecedented Solo Film for a Batman Adversary
The Clayface movie represents a first in several ways: it is Clayface’s debut on the big screen and also the first time a Batman villain receives a solo film before Batman himself has returned to the DCU narrative. This choice highlights the studio’s intent to explore lesser-known characters in greater depth rather than focusing exclusively on established heroes and their classic adversaries. Such an approach broadens the narrative scope and could influence future DCU titles, encouraging more experimental and character-driven projects.
As Batman remains a pivotal figure in the DC world, fans are likely to see him soon in full force, but the Clayface film is setting a precedent by demonstrating that DC Studios is willing to take creative risks. This could open avenues for additional villain-centric films or series that explore morality, tragedy, and complexity without the necessity of a hero’s constant presence.
The Impact on the DCU and Future Prospects
With the Clayface film scheduled for release next year, the DCU is expanding its universe by introducing mature, layered storytelling through villains instead of heroes alone. James Gunn’s leadership emphasizes character depth and psychological nuance, potentially reshaping how comic book adaptations are received, especially those balancing horror and superhero elements.
Following Clayface, fans can expect Matt Reeves’ The Batman Part II to eventually bring the Dark Knight’s story back into the spotlight, enriched by the new tone set by earlier films. This development may influence how Batman’s villains are portrayed across future DCU projects, blending traditional superhero action with dark, introspective elements.
Ultimately, Clayface’s solo debut not only marks a milestone for the character but also signals a broader strategy within DC Studios to explore complex narratives and mature themes, setting the stage for a more diverse and engaging cinematic universe.
Happy Anniversary to the perennially misunderstood villain, Clayface. Can’t wait for you to see @TomRhysHarries bring him to life on the big screen! pic.twitter.com/cAPXETGPit
— James Gunn (@JamesGunn) October 26, 2025
