James Gunn Explains Why the Clayface Movie Had to Be a Part of the DCU and Not Matt Reeves' The Batman Epic Crime Saga

James Gunn and Peter Safran, co-heads of DC Studios, have confirmed the upcoming Clayface movie will be canon within the DC Universe (DCU) and carry an R rating. Clayface, a long-standing Batman adversary with the ability to shapeshift his clay-like body, first appeared in Detective Comics #40 (1940) as Basil Karlo.

DC Studios announced a September 11, 2026, release date for the film last month. The project reportedly stemmed from the success of HBO's The Penguin series. Horror maestro Mike Flanagan penned the screenplay, with Lynn Harris producing alongside The Batman director Matt Reeves.

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During a DC Studios presentation to IGN, Gunn and Safran explained Clayface's inclusion in the DCU, differentiating it from Matt Reeves' The Batman Epic Crime Saga. Gunn confirmed, "Clayface is totally DCU," clarifying that Reeves' saga encompasses only the Batman trilogy and The Penguin series, remaining under DC Studios' umbrella despite the distinction. Safran emphasized the importance of Clayface within the DCU, describing it as an origin story for a classic villain. Gunn further explained that Clayface's tone wouldn't have been suitable for the grounded nature of Reeves' films.

Negotiations with Speak No Evil director James Watkins to helm the project are reportedly nearing completion, with filming slated to begin this summer. Safran described Clayface as an "experimental" body horror film, an "indie style chiller," showcasing a compelling origin story. Gunn described it as "pure f***ing horror," emphasizing its realistic, psychological, and visceral nature. The R rating was confirmed by Gunn, highlighting its alignment with their previous horror-focused productions. Gunn expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating that if presented with the script five years ago, they would have eagerly produced it.