Moreover, DC Studios is shaking up the Batman cinematic legacy with its upcoming Clayface movie. In fact, for the first time in 21 years, a Batman-related film will release in theaters without IMAX. This marks a surprising departure from tradition. As a result, fans are buzzing about what this means for the DC Universe and the overall visual experience of the film.
The End of a 21-Year IMAX Streak
Ever since 2005, every major Batman film has graced IMAX screens. In particular, this includes classics and fan favorites such as:
- Batman Begins (2005)
- The Dark Knight (2008)
- The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
- Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)
- The Lego Batman Movie (2017)
- Justice League (2017)
- Joker (2019)
- The Batman (2022)
- The Flash (2023)
- Joker: Folie à Deux (2024)
IMAX has long been synonymous with epic Batman moments, therefore giving fans immersive visuals and a larger-than-life cinematic experience. However, skipping IMAX for Clayface is a bold choice, and at the same time, it reflects the studio’s focus on creativity, budget efficiency, as well as a more intimate horror style rather than the typical blockbuster spectacle.
About Clayface and Its Unique Approach
The film stars Tom Rhys Harries as Matt Hagen, a struggling actor. He ultimately transforms into the monstrous, shape-shifting villain Clayface. Moreover, unlike other blockbuster productions, DC Studios is emphasizing practical body horror effects rather than relying heavily on CGI. In doing so, the film pays homage to classic horror techniques.
Initially slated for September 11, 2026, the release date was later shifted to October 26, thereby placing the film firmly in the spooky Halloween season. Furthermore, this strategic move avoids direct IMAX competition with Paramount’s Street Fighter, which hits theaters on October 16, and at the same time, positions Clayface as a standout autumn release.
Originally slated for September 11, 2026, the release date was shifted to October 26, placing the film firmly in the spooky Halloween season. This strategic move avoids direct IMAX competition with Paramount’s Street Fighter, hitting theaters on October 16, and positions Clayface as a standout autumn release.
Budget and Production Choices
With a $40 million budget—well below the typical $150–200 million for superhero films—foregoing IMAX made practical sense. IMAX cameras and formats can be expensive, and the studio decided to allocate resources to create a visually striking experience using practical effects.
Moreover, the smaller budget encourages innovation. By relying on old-school horror techniques, DC Studios is showing that compelling visuals don’t always require massive CGI budgets. This approach adds a sense of authenticity and texture that fans are unlikely to forget.
Despite the absence of IMAX, fans can still expect high-quality visuals and immersive storytelling, with the filmmakers promising that the movie’s aesthetic and atmosphere will rival even large-scale blockbuster releases.
DC Studios confirmed that IMAX will continue to play a role in upcoming films like Supergirl, Man of Tomorrow, and The Batman: Part 2. This signals that Clayface’s IMAX absence is a one-off decision, not a new trend for the DC Universe.
This move also highlights DC Studios’ willingness to experiment with its cinematic strategy. By testing different formats and storytelling techniques, the studio aims to keep fans engaged. At the same time, it explores a variety of tones—from horror and suspense to traditional superhero action. Ultimately, Clayface represents a unique experiment. It blends horror, practical effects, and suspense while giving fans a fresh cinematic experience that stands apart from anything previously seen in the Batman universe.
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Shobith C 
Ambily Sajan 
Patrick Webb