TheDC Universehas finally found its lead for theClayfacemovie. TheDCU’s Chapter 1: “Gods and Monsters"has multiple movies and TV shows in the works for some of DC’s most iconic superheroes, and one of Batman’s villains will be getting his own film, with DC Studios currently in pre-production onClayface. While not initially announced as part of the studio’s slate during DC’s original January 2023 announcement,Clayfacebecame a surprise addition, and now the film is finally closer to becoming a reality.
According toDeadline, Welsh actor Tom Rhys Harries has been cast to play the titular role in theClayfacemovie, which is set to be directed by James Atkins, based on a script by Mike Flanagan.James Gunnalso confirmed theClayfacecasting, as he shared the following statement on Harries joining the DCU:
Gunn stated,“After a long and incredibly exhaustive search, we finally have our DCU Clayface in Tom Rhys Harries. Both Matt Reeves and I were just blown away by this guy, and can’t wait for you to see this film, directed by James Watkins and written by Mike Flanagan.“Principal photography on theClayfacemovie is set to begin this fall, with a release date set for July 20, 2025.
What Clayface’s Casting Means
One of the takeaways from Harries' casting was how DC Studios went with a fresh face for the leadingClayfacerole,which showcases, once again, their commitment to finding lesser-known stars for the new DCU franchise.By also finally having their lead star, it meansClayfacewill now start casting the supporting characters who will be in the film. Although what other characters, especially from the DC canon, will be part oftheClayfacemovieremains to be seen for the time being.
As Gunn has made it clear before, any project at DC Studios will not move forward without a completed script. Based on the fact that Harries has been cast,it means DC Studios is happy with theClayfacescript, which, according toDeadline, had"additional drafts"done by Hossein Amini. That will also make things easier for casting the other characters inClayface, as they get closer to filming in the fall.
Our Take On Clayface’s Casting
It will be incredibly exciting to see what Harries brings toClayface,as this villain has never had a proper live-action depiction before on the big screen. It will also be fascinating to see howthe DCU timelineutilizesClayfacein other projects after his solo film. Hopefully, more details on theClayfacemovie will emerge sooner rather than later following the lead casting.
Clayface
Cast
Clayface is a feature film centered around the shapeshifting Batman villain. The movie, described as a horror, thriller, and tragedy, explores the darker dimensions of this iconic character within the DC Universe.
