Brief
DC’s ‘Clayface’ draws early praise for brutal body‑horror thrills
Journalists and fans laud the new DC villain film for its graphic horror and strong lead performance.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Early screenings of DC Comics’ body‑horror thriller “Clayface” have sparked strong reactions, with journalists and fans describing the film as “freakishly awesome” and “loaded with brutal scenes,” Variety reported on October 14, 2026.
What happened
Directed by James Watkins, known for “Speak No Evil,” the movie follows Matt Hagen (Tom Rhys Harries), an actor whose face is disfigured by a mob boss. Desperate, Hagen volunteers for Dr. Caitlyn Corr (Naomi Ackie) and is transformed into a clay‑based creature, spiralling into madness. The film, co‑written by Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini, also features David Dencik, Max Minghella and Eddie Marsan. Warner Bros. plans a U.S. theatrical release on October 23.
What the reports add
Collider editor‑in‑chief Steven Weintraub praised the movie on X, calling it “an awesome addition to the DCU that doesn’t require any knowledge of DC to enjoy” and noting its hard‑R rating and surprising brutality. Film critic Peter Gray highlighted the “comic book flair” that does not lessen the film’s darkness, and commended Harries for delivering “equal boyish charm and quiet menace.” YouTuber Brandon Davis echoed the sentiment, labeling the film “freakishly awesome” and applauding Watkins’ creative use of Clayface’s abilities.
What was said
Weintraud wrote, “Audience freaked out a few times during my screening to what was being depicted on screen.” Gray added, “Dark, violent, with little levity to offset the nastiness, this is an exciting addition to Gunn’s DCU.” Davis posted, “‘Clayface’ is one of the best horrors of the year!”
How it came about
The project brings together talent from horror and superhero realms: Watkins from “Speak No Evil,” Flanagan of “The Haunting of Hill House,” and producer Matt Reeves, who also directed “The Batman.” The film’s development follows recent DC‑U horror ventures, such as the “Carrie” series produced by Flanagan earlier this month, which sparked its own debate over graphic content.
Key facts
- “Clayface” is directed by James Watkins and co‑written by Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini. (variety.com)
- Tom Rhys Harries stars as Matt Hagen, a disfigured actor who becomes a clay‑based monster. (variety.com)
- Early reviewers describe the film as hard‑R, brutally graphic, and “freakishly awesome.” (variety.com)
- Warner Bros. will release the film in U.S. theaters on Oct. 23, 2026. (variety.com)
Sources
- [1] variety.com — originally reported as “‘Clayface’ First Reactions Praise DC Body Horror as ‘Freakishly Awesome’ and ‘Loaded With Brutal Scenes’”
