Clayface: DC's Body Horror Gamble Divides Critics

Key points

• The film is the third theatrical entry in the DC Universe, following 'Superman' and 'Supergirl', but operates as a standalone story with no named DC characters.
• Tom Rhys Harries plays Matt Hagen, a movie star whose face is sliced by a mob boss, leading him to seek experimental nanotechnology from Dr. Caitlyn Corr (Naomi Ackie).
• The movie features heavy practical effects and body horror, including a scene where Matt cuts away skin growing over his eyes during an airplane flight.
• It is rated R, runs 1 hour 48 minutes, and was produced by DC Studios and 6th & Idaho, with James Gunn and Peter Safran as producers.
• The film was shot in Liverpool, which served as a stand-in for Gotham City, and has a reported budget of approximately $40 million.

Background

DC Studios has faced recent box office struggles, with 'Supergirl' reportedly losing over $200 million and 'The Penguin' setting a high bar for villain-centric films. 'Clayface' is part of a new 'Gods and Monsters' strand, aiming to capitalize on the horror genre's popularity, similar to how 'Joker' succeeded in 2019. The film's release coincides with a broader trend of audiences seeking scary, high-impact entertainment, as noted by The Hollywood Reporter.

How outlets are covering it

The Hollywood Reporter's Frank Scheck praises 'Clayface' as a 'bona fide body-horror delight' and a 'big surprise,' highlighting its psychological depth and comparisons to David Cronenberg. In contrast, The Guardian's review calls it a 'clumsily missed opportunity,' criticizing its 'tinny aesthetic' and lack of confident direction, comparing it unfavorably to 'Joker' and 'The Penguin.' USA Today rates it two stars, calling it a 'disappointing mess' due to poor character development and a lack of Gotham's personality. Rotten Tomatoes aggregates mixed reviews, noting that while Tom Rhys Harries' performance is a standout, the script and effects are uneven, with some critics calling it a 'messy but distinctive' entry and others labeling it 'average' for the DCU. Critics also debate whether the film's standalone nature is a strength or a weakness, with some praising its lack of identity crisis and others finding it disposable.

Why it matters

'Clayface' tests DC Studios' ability to diversify beyond traditional superhero narratives, potentially influencing the future direction of the DC Universe. Its reception may impact how James Gunn and Peter Safran approach future projects, particularly in balancing horror elements with broader audience appeal. The film's performance could also signal a shift in how comic book adaptations are marketed and produced, with a focus on lower-budget, genre-specific entries.

What to watch

The film is set to open in theaters on October 23, 2026. Its box office performance and audience reception will likely influence DC Studios' future decisions regarding the 'Gods and Monsters' strand and the overall strategy for the DC Universe. Critics and audiences will be watching to see if the film's horror elements can sustain interest beyond its initial release, particularly in the competitive Halloween season.