Fans got their first exciting peek at the upcoming Clayface movie when set photos surfaced online. These images show actor Tom Rhys Harries in character as Matt Hagen, the man who becomes the shape-shifting villain in this 2026 R-rated Batman spin-off from DC Studios.
Production Kicks Off in Liverpool
Filming for Clayface started recently in the United Kingdom, with Liverpool standing in for the gritty streets of Gotham City. Crews transformed local spots like the Crown Court building into a hospital setting, adding to the film’s dark, horror vibe.
This body horror thriller marks a bold step for the DC Universe, directed by James Watkins and written by Mike Flanagan. Production began amid high anticipation, with leaks quickly spreading across social media.
The movie draws from classic comic roots, focusing on Hagen’s tragic fall from grace. Early scenes appear to capture his disfigurement, setting up the intense transformation ahead.
Tom Rhys Harries Steps into the Role
Tom Rhys Harries, known from shows like Doctor Who, takes on the lead as Matt Hagen. Set photos capture him bloodied and bandaged, hinting at the brutal attack that ruins his acting career.
In one shot, Harries appears shirtless under a jacket, possibly right after the incident. His pretty-boy looks shine through in cleaner images, showing why Hagen was a rising star before the tragedy.
These glimpses build excitement for how Harries will portray the shift from human to monster. Fans praise his casting, noting his range fits the character’s emotional depth.
Plot Teases and Horror Elements
Clayface centers on Matt Hagen, an actor disfigured by a gangster. Desperate, he turns to experimental science, gaining shape-shifting powers but losing his humanity in the process.
The story blends horror with superhero lore, promising R-rated scares. It explores themes of identity and revenge, tying into Batman’s world without featuring the Dark Knight directly.
Key plot points include:
- Hagen’s Hollywood rise and sudden downfall.
- A mad scientist’s risky cure that backfires.
- Clashes with Gotham’s underworld, leading to villainy.
This setup echoes comic versions, especially the one from Batman: The Animated Series, where Hagen’s protoplasm exposure creates his abilities.
Ties to the Broader DC Universe
Clayface fits into James Gunn’s DCU, separate from Matt Reeves’ Batman films. Set photos confirm a new Gotham Police logo, signaling it’s not in the same continuity as The Batman.
While Batman might not appear, the movie expands the universe with familiar elements. It paves the way for future crossovers, like in The Brave and the Bold.
Here’s a quick look at upcoming DCU projects:
| Movie Title | Release Year | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Superman | 2025 | Man of Steel’s origin |
| Clayface | 2026 | Shape-shifting horror |
| The Brave and the Bold | TBA | Batman and Robin team-up |
| Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow | 2026 | Cosmic adventure |
This slate shows DC’s mix of solo stories and team-ups.
Fan Reactions and Buzz
Social media lit up with the set photos, as fans shared theories and excitement. Many highlight how Harries’ look captures Hagen’s vulnerability before his monstrous turn.
Discussions focus on the R-rating, with hopes for gritty, unsettling scenes. Some compare it to past Batman villains, predicting Clayface could steal the show.
The buzz ties into larger DC trends, like recent Superman filming updates, keeping the franchise in the spotlight.
What to Expect from Clayface
With a September 2026 release, Clayface aims to deliver a fresh take on a classic foe. Its horror roots could attract new audiences beyond comic fans.
As production rolls on, more leaks might reveal creature designs or plot twists. This spin-off proves DC’s willingness to experiment with tones and genres.
Share your thoughts on these set photos in the comments below. What do you hope to see in Clayface? Spread the word by sharing this article with fellow DC fans.
