Meet the new face of Gotham.
DC Studios has released the official trailer for Clayface, the upcoming horror thriller that will introduce one of Batman’s most iconic villains into the new DC Universe.
Directed by James Watkins, Clayface stars Tom Rhys Harries as Matt Hagen, a rising Hollywood actor whose life takes a horrifying turn after tragedy, disfigurement, and an experimental treatment push him toward becoming the shape-shifting villain fans know from DC Comics.
The film follows Hagen’s journey from Gotham street kid to Hollywood star before a local crime boss destroys his career and leaves him physically changed. Desperate to reclaim his former identity, Matt turns to a groundbreaking treatment that restores his appearance but begins to impact his mind, sending him down a path fueled by revenge.
The cast includes Naomi Ackie, David Dencik, Max Minghella, Eddie Marsan, Nancy Carroll, and Joshua James.
Written by Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini from a story by Flanagan, Clayface will explore themes of identity, obsession, love, and the darker side of scientific ambition.
The film will also officially introduce Gotham City into the DC Universe timeline. According to DC Studios co-chairman Peter Safran, Clayface takes place before the events of the animated series Creature Commandos, featuring the same version of Matt Hagen seen in the DCU.
While the movie is set in Gotham, director James Watkins says the story will remain focused on Matt Hagen rather than bringing in other members of Batman’s world.
“Clayface is Matt Hagen’s story,” Watkins explained, emphasizing that the film is about following one person’s journey within the larger world of Gotham.
Produced by Matt Reeves, Lynn Harris, James Gunn, and Peter Safran, with executive producers including Michael E. Uslan and Chantal Nong Vo, Clayface marks a new direction for DC Studios by blending superhero storytelling with horror.
DC Studios’ Clayface arrives only in theaters October 23, 2026.