James Gunn’s Batman spin-off film, Clayface, is assembling a notable cast ahead of its September 11 release. The upcoming movie will introduce audiences to Gotham’s darker corners, focusing on a key villain origin story within the DC Universe, notably involving Matt Hagen’s transformation into Clayface.
Six Leading Actors Join the Cast of James Gunn’s Clayface
Half a dozen prominent actors are now confirmed to appear in the Clayface movie, which represents the third installation in James Gunn’s developing DC Universe slate after the planned 2025 Superman and 2026 Supergirl films. Directed by James Watkins with a screenplay by Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini, the film marks Clayface’s first live-action portrayal.
Tom Rhys Harries Takes on the Role of Clayface
British actor Tom Rhys Harries has been cast as Clayface, the alter ego of Matt Hagen. Harries, recognized for roles in White Lines, The Gentlemen, and Suspicion, will bring to life one of Batman’s most menacing foes. Within the film’s storyline, Matt Hagen is a struggling actor who suffers a disfiguring incident following a confrontation with a criminal. After ingesting an experimental chemical compound, he gains the ability to shapeshift at will, making him a dangerous antagonist for Gotham’s protector.
Naomi Ackie to Play Dr. Caitlin Bates, a New Character
Naomi Ackie joins the project as Dr. Caitlin Bates, a character created specifically for this film without prior comic book history. Ackie, known for roles in Mickey 17, Lady Macbeth, and her appearance as Jannah in Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker, will portray the CEO of a pioneering biotech startup engaged in advanced medical research. Dr. Bates is believed to be Matt Hagen’s primary love interest in the narrative.
Max Minghella Cast as Detective John, Adding Police Perspective
Max Minghella takes on the role of Detective John, another original character created for this film. Minghella, whose credits include Spiral, Babylon, The Social Network, and The Handmaid’s Tale, will bring intrigue as the fiancé of Dr. Bates. His character is said to grow suspicious of Catherine’s relationship with Matt Hagen, hinting at a deeper exploration of Gotham’s Police Department throughout the movie’s plot.
Possible Role for Eddie Marsan as Matt Hagen’s Manager
Though not officially confirmed, Eddie Marsan is rumored to play the role of Matt Hagen’s manager. Marsan’s career highlights include The World’s End, 21 Grams, and Happy-Go-Lucky. If accurate, Marsan’s character would support Hagen during his volatile transformation, with set photographs suggesting scenes involving hospital press conferences connected to his character’s role.
Emily Florence and Wil Coban Join in Supporting Roles
Emily Florence, known for her stage work in London’s West End and her involvement in the BBC drama A Good Girl’s Guide To Murder, will appear in the film in a yet-to-be-revealed role. Meanwhile, Wil Coban, who has had background parts in The Boys in the Boat, The Sandman, and Zack Snyder’s Justice League, will portray a character named Bones. Coban’s participation marks one of his most prominent roles to date and links him to multiple entries in James Gunn’s DC portfolio, including a minor part scheduled in Supergirl.
Clayface as a Turning Point in James Gunn’s DC Universe
Clayface will be the first DC Studios film to center on a villain as its protagonist, spotlighting Matt Hagen’s descent from actor to shapeshifting menace. This fresh perspective on Gotham’s darker elements offers a new narrative path separate from Batman himself but essential to the expanded universe James Gunn is building. The film’s release follows the Superman and Supergirl movies, positioning it as a pivotal chapter in creating depth and diversity within this emerging DC franchise.
The casting choices, combining established performers and new faces, illustrate the film’s intent to intertwine intense character drama with Gotham’s familiar themes of crime and transformation. With James Watkins directing and writers Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini crafting the screenplay, Clayface promises a tense, character-driven story set against the backdrop of Gotham’s shadowy underworld.
