Actor Tom Rhys Harries and director James Watkins said the upcoming DCU Clayface film will rely heavily on practical effects during an interview with IGN.

The production marks a significant shift for the DC Universe by blending superhero storytelling with a horror aesthetic. This approach signals a broader effort to diversify the tone of the franchise beyond traditional action cinema.

Speaking at San Diego Comic-Con in July 2026 [3], Watkins and Harries said the film draws inspiration from the "Feat of Clay" episode of *Batman: The Animated Series*. The creative team aims to use physical effects to ground the character's shapeshifting abilities in a visceral, frightening way.

Watkins said the production followed specific guidance from James Gunn regarding the representation of Gotham City. This project serves as the first live-action appearance of the city within the new DCU continuity.

Industry reports indicate that Clayface will be the third film released in the DCU [1]. It is also positioned as the first horror movie within the franchise [2]. The decision to lead with practical effects is intended to create a more immersive experience for the audience, avoiding the sterile feel of excessive digital manipulation.

Harries, who plays the titular character, said the role has physical demands. The production's focus on a horror-driven atmosphere is intended to highlight the tragic and grotesque nature of the character's transformation.

“Clayface will be the third film set in the DCU”

By integrating a horror aesthetic and prioritizing practical effects, DC Studios is attempting to differentiate the new DCU from previous iterations of the franchise. The reliance on specific animated series inspirations suggests a strategy of leveraging nostalgia while pushing the boundaries of genre, potentially opening the door for more niche, adult-oriented storytelling within the broader cinematic universe.