DC has released the first teaser trailer for “Clayface,” showing a different direction from its typical superhero films. The trailer portrays the classic Batman villain as a tragic character, focusing on body horror and struggles with identity instead of action.
It hints at his past as a once-famous performer, mixing moments of glory with scenes of decline. The dark visuals and practical effects suggest a new approach for the studio, which is trying more standalone, character-focused stories.
DC Studios’ first-ever foray into the genre, “Clayface” is a horror thriller from director James Watkins, starring Tom Rhys Harries in the title role of the Gotham City villain.
“Clayface” unravels one man’s horrifying descent from rising Hollywood star to revenge-filled monster in a story that explores the loss of one’s identity and humanity, corrosive love, and the dark underbelly of scientific ambition.
The film also stars Naomi Ackie, David Dencik, Max Minghella and Eddie Marsan, as well as Nancy Carroll and Joshua James.
James Watkins directs from a screenplay by Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini, story by Flanagan, based on characters from DC. The film is produced by Matt Reeves, Lynn Harris, James Gunn and Peter Safran, with Michael E. Uslan, Rafi Crohn, Paul Ritchie, Chantal Nong Vo and Lars P. Winther executive producing.
Watkins’ creative team includes director of photography Rob Hardy, production designer James Price, editor Jon Harris, visual effects supervisor Angus Bickerton, costume designer Keith Madden, and casting director Lucy Bevan.
DC Studios Presents, in association with Domain Entertainment, a 6th & Idaho Production, a James Watkins Film, “Clayface.” The film will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures and released only in theaters and IMAX® in North America on October 23, 2026, and internationally beginning on October 21, 2026.
