Clayface is bringing a horror-focused story to the DCU with its upcoming theatrical release. Directed by James Watkins, the film stars Tom Rhys Harries as Matt Hagen. The story follows a rising Hollywood actor who becomes a monster after an experimental treatment goes wrong. The film explores identity, revenge, and the dark side of scientific ambition, offering a different approach to the superhero genre.
At the time of this article’s publication, Clayface has a 74% score on Rotten Tomatoes‘ Tomatometer with 77 reviews. The rating puts it below James Gunn’s Superman, which has an 83% score from 509 reviews. However, it remains above Supergirl, which holds a 52% score from 380 reviews. Although it has not reached the same critical standing as Superman, the horror film has earned a more favorable response than Supergirl.
What do critics’ reviews like most about Clayface?
Critics have highlighted Harries’ performance, the film’s unsettling visuals, and its attempt to take the DCU into darker territory. The Hollywood Reporter praised the film’s presentation, writing that Clayface delivers “the sort of psychological depth and emotional resonance that enable it to bear comparisons to the works of such body horror maestros as David Cronenberg and Sam Raimi.” The review also highlighted its grimy visuals and comic-book-inspired dialogue.
Time Out gave the film four out of five stars, describing it as “one of the ickiest body horrors since The Substance.” The review praised Watkins’ direction and the film’s disturbing physical transformations, which help distinguish it from conventional superhero adventures.
The Associated Press also praised the film’s blend of horror, romance, and revenge. Critic Mark Kennedy described it as a “surprisingly good revenge thriller-romance.” His review highlighted the practical effects, unsettling transformations, and emotional layers that distinguish the film from conventional comic-book adaptations.
Overall, Clayface has earned praise for its lead performance and distinctive horror approach. Its current Tomatometer score sits between Superman and Supergirl, suggesting that DC Studios’ latest experiment has made a promising impression on critics.
Clayface will be in theaters on October 23, 2026.
