Clayface Film Receives First Teaser, Confirmed as DCU Chronological Outlier
James Gunn has confirmed that Clayface is "the first DCU film out of chronological order," placing it before all other announced projects in the DC Universe timeline.
Warner Bros. and DC Studios have released the first teaser for the upcoming Clayface film, accompanied by confirmation from DC Studios co-head James Gunn on the film's placement within the broader DC Universe (DCU) timeline. The film is scheduled for theatrical release on October 23, 2026.
Chronological Placement
James Gunn confirmed via social media platform Threads that the Clayface film is set before all other announced DCU shows and movies, including the upcoming Superman film.
Gunn described the film as "the first DCU film out of chronological order." When asked about its connections to other DCU stories, Gunn stated: "It's very connected, but as always the standalone story is what's most important."
Cast and Characters
The film features Tom Rhys Harries as Matt Hagen, the character who transforms into Clayface. Naomi Ackie portrays Dr. Caitlin Bates, described as a scientist and Hagen's love interest. Additional co-stars include David Dencik, Max Minghella, and Eddie Marsan.
Production Details
James Gunn is involved with the DC Universe project. The screenplay was written by Mike Flanagan, and the film is directed by James Watkins.
Gunn specified that Clayface is being developed as a "horror film," distinct from a superhero-horror hybrid. The plot follows a Hollywood star's descent into a revenge-driven monster, exploring themes of identity loss, corrosive love, and scientific ambition.
Teaser Content
The teaser, initially shown to CinemaCon audiences before being released publicly, includes:
- Footage of Matt Hagen with bandages on his face
- Visual effects depicting facial distortion and stretching
- A slowed, echoed version of The Flaming Lips song "Do You Realize?"
- At approximately 20 seconds, a brief image of computer screens and X-ray imagery
Story Elements
The film appears to utilize a scientific explanation for Clayface's transformation, as opposed to supernatural elements. Some descriptions of Dr. Caitlin Bates have drawn comparisons to Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes.
Commentary on the film's origin story suggests it may draw inspiration from the comic book origins of The Creeper, which in some DC Comics stories involved nanotechnology and "nanocells" creating "smart-skin," with Joker Venom added to the serum in certain versions.
Related Projects
Other upcoming DC Universe projects include:
- Man of Tomorrow (featuring Brainiac)
- Supergirl (featuring Kara and Lobo)
- Creature Commandos, which has also been described as incorporating horror elements