DCU co-heads James Gunn and Peter Safran have confirmed the upcoming Clayface film as a DCU canon entry, boasting an R rating. The film centers on the iconic Batman villain, a Gotham City criminal with the power to morph his clay-like body into anyone or anything. Basil Karlo, the first Clayface, debuted in Detective Comics #40 (1940).
DC Studios announced a September 11, 2026, release date last month, a decision reportedly influenced by the success of HBO's The Penguin series. Horror maestro Mike Flanagan penned the script, with Lynn Harris producing alongside The Batman director Matt Reeves.
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Gunn and Safran, speaking at a DC Studios presentation attended by IGN, explained Clayface's placement within the DCU, differentiating it from Matt Reeves' The Batman Epic Crime Saga. Safran clarified that only the Batman trilogy and The Penguin series fall under Reeves' purview, emphasizing the strong collaborative relationship despite the distinct universes.
Gunn stressed the importance of Clayface's inclusion in the broader DCU, describing it as an origin story for a classic villain integral to their vision. He further explained that Clayface's tone wouldn't align with the grounded realism of Reeves' saga.
Negotiations with Speak No Evil director James Watkins to helm the project are reportedly nearing completion, with filming slated to begin this summer. Safran highlighted the film as a "body horror" piece showcasing a compelling origin story, while Gunn described it as "pure f***ing horror," emphasizing its realistic, psychological, and visceral nature. The R rating was confirmed. Gunn further stated that if presented with the script five years ago, they would have eagerly produced it due to its exceptional quality.
