The DCU’s new Batman villain movie has officially wrapped filming. As a result, this marks the end of production on Clayface. Meanwhile, star Tom Rhys Harries confirmed the exciting news by posting a celebratory image on his Instagram Story. Soon after, the post spread across fan pages and social media platforms, further fueling excitement among DC fans everywhere.
The actor’s post showed him standing next to a crew member outside a trailer. Notably, the image had the bold word “WRAP” written across it. Inside the trailer, meanwhile, fans noticed eerie decorations, including balloons, sketches, and cryptic notes that read:
“Are you going 2 leave me?” and “Do you know what paradise is?”
These chilling messages perfectly capture the film’s dark, psychological tone. Furthermore, their inclusion subtly hints at the mental breakdown and transformation that the titular villain will endure throughout the story.
As a result, the update has reignited excitement within the fandom, with many praising the DCU’s willingness to experiment with darker storytelling.
DCU’s New Batman Villain Movie Embraces Full Horror
While most DC projects lean toward epic heroism, Clayface takes a daring turn into pure horror. DC Studios co-chair James Gunn described the film as:
“A complete horror film.”
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the movie follows:
“A B-movie actor who injects himself with a substance to stay relevant, only to discover he can reshape his face and form—becoming a walking piece of clay.”
Ultimately, this unsettling premise suggests a tragic narrative about ambition, vanity, and identity. In essence, the idea of a once-human actor turning into a shape-shifting monster symbolizes the price of obsession — a theme frequently explored in Gothic horror classics.
In addition, the film’s tone blends psychological thriller elements with intense visual effects. This approach immerses audiences in both terror and empathy for its tormented protagonist. Such a direction is a clear departure from conventional superhero formulas. It positions Clayface as one of the most unique entries in the new DCU.
Clayface Marks a Bold Step for the DCU
Furthermore, directed by James Watkins (Speak No Evil) and written by Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini, Clayface represents DC Studios’ ongoing effort to expand its tone and storytelling beyond conventional hero narratives.
Moreover, filming began in September 2025 and has now officially wrapped, thereby moving the production into post. In addition, the project stands apart from upcoming hero-centric releases such as Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, Lanterns, and Superman: Man of Tomorrow.
Moreover, this marks one of the first DCU films to focus entirely on a villain, diving into his tragic backstory while highlighting his monstrous transformation. The film’s dark aesthetic and psychological depth make it one of the most anticipated releases in the evolving DC Universe. Clayface is set to hit theaters on September 11, 2026, introducing audiences to a chilling new vision of Gotham’s monstrous mythology.
With Clayface wrapping filming, the DCU’s new Batman villain movie paves the way for a new horror-driven direction under James Gunn’s leadership. By embracing darker storytelling and emphasizing psychological depth, DC Studios signals a bold future where villains can command the spotlight just as powerfully as heroes.
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Sebastian Kind