Body Horror and Tragedy Fuel DC’s R-Rated Batman Spin Film, Officially Taking Theaters in 3 Days
A horror vision joins the DCU
When James Gunn and Peter Safran presented the initial DCU slate, they described a universe spanning genres including superhero action, comedy, fantasy, science fiction, crime and horror. Though the planned titles have shifted, the broad approach remains.
Mike Flanagan proposed a tragic horror story about Clayface, the shape-shifting Batman villain. He had expressed interest in the character in 2021, and the DCU later gave him a chance to pitch the idea to Gunn and Safran.
The film takes shape
Reports in 2023 that the project was moving forward were initially described as unsubstantiated. DC eventually approved the film, with James Watkins directing from a script by Flanagan and screenwriter Hossein Amini.
The movie is now three days from its theatrical release, timed for Halloween. It is presented as a standalone story within the wider DCU.
Matt Hagen’s transformation
Tom Rhys Harries plays Matt Hagen, a Hollywood star who is pushed toward a monstrous fate after the mob brutally disfigures him. He undergoes scientific treatment and appears to recover, but discovers that his body has been changed permanently.
The film’s story also follows changes to Hagen’s mind as he enters a spiral of love and revenge against those who harmed him. Early reactions have largely praised the combination of body horror and tragedy, as well as the film’s R-rated material and Harries’ performance.
Key points
- Clayface reaches theaters in three days, just in time for Halloween.
- Mike Flanagan originated the idea, while James Watkins directed the film.
- Tom Rhys Harries plays Matt Hagen, the Hollywood star who becomes Clayface.
- Early reactions praised the film’s body horror, tragic tone and R-rated material.