DC's 'Clayface' Movie Eyes Horror-Driven Reinvention With New Directors in Contention

Mike Flanagan's script for the Batman spinoff sets the stage for a horror-thriller exploring identity and transformation, with Jeff Wadlow and James Watkins as frontrunners to direct.

DC Studios is developing a 'Clayface' movie, written by acclaimed horror filmmaker Mike Flanagan, with a target release date of September 11, 2026.
Directors Jeff Wadlow ('Truth or Dare') and James Watkins ('Speak No Evil') are reportedly leading candidates to helm the project, with pitching sessions scheduled next week.
The film is described as a horror-thriller-tragedy, focusing on the psychological and transformative aspects of the Batman villain rather than portraying him as a traditional antagonist.
Producers include James Gunn, Peter Safran, Matt Reeves, and Lynn Harris, signaling a collaborative effort between DCU and 'The Batman' creative teams.
The project faces comparisons to Demi Moore's critically acclaimed film 'The Substance,' which explores similar themes of transformation and identity through body horror.