What Happened
Welsh actor Tom Rhys Harries has been cast in the lead role of the upcoming DC Studios film “Clayface,” which is set to be directed by James Watkins. The announcement was made on June 17, 2025, following a competitive casting process that included several notable British actors. Harries is known for his roles in projects such as the Apple TV series “Suspicion” and films like “Kandahar” and “The Gentlemen.” Production for “Clayface” is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2025, with a release date set for September 11, 2026.
The film will explore the character of Clayface, a shape-shifting villain from the Batman comics, who was first introduced in 1940. The narrative will focus on a B-movie actor who, after consuming a substance intended to enhance his career, transforms into a creature made of clay. This unique take on the character is expected to blend elements of body horror with the traditional superhero genre, distinguishing it from other DC films.
Key Details
- Casting: Tom Rhys Harries has been selected for the title role of Clayface, emerging from a pool of candidates that included Jack O’Connell, Tom Blyth, and George MacKay.
- Director: James Watkins, known for his work on “Speak No Evil,” will direct the film.
- Production Timeline: Filming is set to commence in the fall of 2025, with the film scheduled for release on September 11, 2026.
- Character Background: Clayface, originally introduced as Basil Karlo, is a villain characterized by his ability to shape-shift and transform his body into various forms. The film will reportedly focus on the Matt Hagen version of the character.
- Screenwriters: The script has undergone revisions, with Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini contributing to the screenplay.
- Production Team: The film is produced by James Gunn and Peter Safran, alongside Matt Reeves and Lynn Harris.
Multiple Perspectives
The casting of Tom Rhys Harries has been met with a mix of excitement and curiosity. James Gunn, co-head of DC Studios, expressed enthusiasm about Harries’ selection, indicating that both he and Matt Reeves were impressed by the actor’s audition. This sentiment reflects a broader trend within the DC Studios to revitalize its film slate following previous setbacks with films like “The Flash” and “Black Adam.”
Conversely, some industry observers have noted that Harries is relatively new to leading roles in major films, raising questions about whether he can carry a high-profile project like “Clayface.” Critics of the casting may argue that established actors could have provided more immediate recognition and box office draw. However, the choice to cast a newcomer aligns with a trend in Hollywood to discover fresh talent.
Context & Background
The announcement of “Clayface” comes at a critical juncture for DC Studios, which has faced challenges in maintaining a consistent and successful cinematic universe. Following the success of “The Batman,” which was well-received both critically and commercially, DC Studios is looking to build on this momentum with new projects. The film’s unique premise, which diverges from traditional superhero narratives, may appeal to audiences seeking innovative storytelling.
Clayface’s character has a rich history in the DC Comics universe, having appeared in various animated series and video games over the years. The film’s approach to blending body horror with superhero elements may attract a different demographic than typical superhero films, potentially expanding the audience for DC properties.
What We Don’t Know Yet
While the casting and production details for “Clayface” have been confirmed, several aspects of the film remain uncertain. The complete storyline and how the film will integrate into the broader DC cinematic universe have not been disclosed. Additionally, it is unclear how the film will differentiate itself from other adaptations of the character or how it will address the themes of identity and transformation that are central to Clayface’s narrative.
Moreover, the reception of the film upon its release is unpredictable, particularly given the mixed performance of previous DC films. The success of “Clayface” will likely depend on various factors, including marketing strategies, audience reception, and critical reviews at the time of its release.
In summary, while the casting of Tom Rhys Harries as Clayface marks an exciting development for DC Studios, the film’s ultimate impact on the studio’s future and its reception among audiences remains to be seen.
