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Clayface explained: DC's gory new horror movie and why everyone's talking
By The Trends Incoming team · Published 2026-10-20
Spooky season just got a superhero twist. Clayface hits theaters Friday, October 23, and the first people who saw it came out saying things like "freakishly awesome" and "loaded with brutal scenes." Here's the friendly guide.
What it is
It's a DC Studios horror movie about one of Batman's oldest villains. Tom Rhys Harries plays Matt Hagen, an actor whose face is ruined by a local mob boss. Desperate, he signs up for an experiment run by scientist Dr. Caitlyn Corr (Naomi Ackie), and it turns his body into clay. Yes, it gets as gross as it sounds. James Watkins (Speak No Evil) directs, Mike Flanagan (The Haunting of Hill House) wrote the story, and Matt Reeves, James Gunn and Peter Safran produce.
| Release | Fri Oct 23, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Director | James Watkins |
| Star | Tom Rhys Harries |
| Reported budget | About $40 million |
| Opening forecast | About $25M to $30M |
Why it's trending
Three reasons. First, the reactions: critics and fans at early screenings called it a hard-R body-horror ride, with comparisons to Joker and The Substance. Second, it's a villain-led DC movie that, per Collider's Steven Weintraub, doesn't need any DC homework. Third, the money: on a reported $40 million budget, a $25 million to $30 million opening would be a win, so box office watchers are paying attention. Our Clayface guide has the cast, crew and FAQ.
Where to follow it
Check showtimes at your local theater and look for the official rating before bringing teens, because the reactions are clear that it doesn't hold back. Follow #Clayface for reviews once the embargo lifts, and come back Sunday for our box office update. Want more Friday plans? See what else is opening and our Halloween costume trends.
Quick answers
When does Clayface come out?
Friday, October 23, 2026, in U.S. theaters from Warner Bros.
Who plays Clayface?
Tom Rhys Harries plays Matt Hagen, the actor who becomes Clayface. Naomi Ackie plays scientist Dr. Caitlyn Corr.
Is Clayface rated R?
Early reactions describe it as a hard R with intense body horror. Check the official rating on your theater listing.
Do I need to see other DC movies before Clayface?
No. Early viewers say it works without any DC knowledge.
Follow it
Sources
- Variety: first reactions
- Page Six: opening weekend outlook
- ComicBasics: tracking and budget
- Box Office Theory: forecast
By The Trends Incoming team · Fact-checked 2026-10-20. Dates change, so double-check with the official source.