Clayface - James Gunn Not Backing Down
The idea, originated by Mike Flanagan, was developed by James Watkins and Hossein Amini
The choice to dedicate a film to Clayface continues to leave some DC fans perplexed. James Gunn, however, does not seem inclined to justify the decision based on popularity. To those who asked him why DC Studios chose Clayface, he responded by reminding them that a film's success does not necessarily depend on the character's notoriety. To support this, he brought up titles like Back to the Future, Casablanca, and Pan's Labyrinth.
In the case of Clayface, the idea originated with Mike Flanagan and was subsequently developed by James Watkins and Hossein Amini. A choice that Gunn considers preferable to making a film built solely on the commercial weight of the protagonist.
For Gunn, what matters is who has something to tell
The work will be directed by Watkins and will star Tom Rhys Harries in the main role, alongside Naomi Ackie, David Dencik, Max Minghella, and Eddie Marsan. The story will follow the transformation of a young Hollywood star into Clayface, with a strong horror component.
The film will arrive in theaters on October 23, 2026. At that point, the discussion about DC Studios' choice will shift from Gunn's statements to the on-screen result.