Naomi Ackie, best known for her performances in I Wanna Dance with Somebody and Bong Joon-ho’s Mickey 17, is now eyeing a pivotal role in the DC Universe. According to sources, the actress is currently in early talks to join the cast of Clayface, a genre-blending psychological horror film that is quickly becoming one of the DCU’s most anticipated projects. In addition, she would join Tom Rhys Harries, who already plays the title role in Clayface.
James Watkins, known for Speak No Evil, directs the film, while James Gunn and Peter Safran, the creative leads of the new DC Universe, back the project.
Naomi Ackie Steps Into the DCU Spotlight
Last week, reading sessions for the film took place in England, where Naomi Ackie quickly emerged as the top choice for the female lead. While the deal isn’t final yet, insiders strongly expect her to join the project. If confirmed, this would mark Ackie’s official entry into the DCU—a move that signals DC’s commitment to casting actors with both critical acclaim and rising star power.
Furthermore, her casting reflects DC’s larger trend of spotlighting nuanced, character-driven performances over conventional superhero tropes.
A Bold Clayface Film Featuring Naomi Ackie
Horror visionary Mike Flanagan (The Haunting of Hill House, Doctor Sleep) pens Clayface to deliver a chilling and thought-provoking experience. The script draws heavily from body-horror classics like David Cronenberg’s The Fly but reinterprets the genre through a modern lens.
The story follows an ambitious actor whom a gangster brutally disfigures. Desperate for help, he turns to a controversial scientist—described as “Elizabeth Holmes-style”—who provides a radical experimental cure. The treatment initially works wonders, but things quickly spiral out of control, triggering a horrifying transformation.
Psychological Horror and Naomi Ackie’s Role
What makes Clayface stand out is its grounded tone and psychological depth. With a modest budget of around $45 million, the film will rely more on atmosphere, tension, and performance rather than big-budget spectacle. Naomi Ackie is expected to portray a complex and emotionally resonant character, likely someone close to the protagonist’s descent. Her presence adds dramatic weight, especially as the story explores identity, vanity, and the price of ambition.
Moreover, the horror elements are said to be deeply rooted in character—not just special effects. That direction plays to Ackie’s strengths as an actress known for her emotional range.
DC Studios Invests in Gritty Storytelling
Produced by industry heavyweights Matt Reeves, Lynn Harris, James Gunn, and Peter Safran, Clayface is more than just a villain origin story. It represents DC’s pivot toward experimental narratives and genre storytelling. Interestingly, the film is scheduled for release on September 11, 2026, well ahead of major tentpoles like Wonder Woman. This decision underlines the studio’s intention to break away from traditional release models and storytelling formulas.
Additionally, making a lesser-known villain the center of a film could pave the way for similar character-focused stories in the future DCU.
What’s Next for Naomi Ackie?
Naomi Ackie’s career continues to soar. Beyond Clayface, she stars in A24’s Sundance standout Sorry, Baby, which has already generated early awards buzz. She’s also set to appear in Netflix’s The Thursday Murder Club alongside Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan, and she recently joined I Love Boosters, directed by Boots Riley.
Clearly, Ackie is building a diverse and exciting portfolio. Her potential entry into the DC Universe only reinforces her status as one of today’s most versatile rising stars.
In conclusion, Clayface could offer a refreshing take on superhero cinema—one where horror, drama, and transformation converge. Casting Naomi Ackie in such a pivotal role is not only exciting but strategically brilliant. Her talent, combined with a strong script and visionary direction, sets this film apart.
If all goes according to plan, Clayface may become a surprise critical hit and a cornerstone of DCU’s bold new era.
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Patrick Webb