DC Studios Confirms R-Rated 'Clayface' Movie Directed by James Watkins

The Batman villain origin story will be a psychological body horror film, marking the DCU's first R-rated entry.

James Watkins, known for 'The Woman in Black' and 'Speak No Evil,' is in final negotiations to direct the film based on Mike Flanagan's screenplay.
The movie will explore the origin of Batman villain Clayface and is described as a 'pure body horror' project with psychological and grotesque elements.
Clayface will be part of the official DC Universe and is set to begin filming this summer, with a theatrical release scheduled for September 11, 2026.
James Gunn and Peter Safran highlighted the script’s exceptional quality, adding it to the DCU slate despite initial plans not including a Clayface movie.
Casting for the film will start once Watkins' deal is finalized, with the project aiming to appeal to horror fans and expand the creative scope of the DCU.