Set within James Gunn’s DC reboot, Clayface has landed James Watkins as the director of the movie, from a script written by the horror legend, Mike Flanagan. The film, which has also been described as a Hollywood horror story, will reportedly reimagine the titular character beyond the typical villain portrayal in the comics.
Flanagan, who is known for his incredible work in the horror genre, could not direct the movie due to his previous commitments. However, Watkins is also renowned for his work within the genre, including for films like Eden Lake and most recently Speak No Evil.
James Watkins joins the DC film Clayface as the director
Based on the Batman villain, Clayface has been in conversation since James Gunn revealed the film as part of his DC reboot. And new reports have confirmed James Watkins to take the film’s helm as its director.
Watkins is known for his work in horror movies like The Woman in Black, Speak No Evil, and his debut with the 2008 horror-thriller, Eden Lake, which featured a compelling, powerful, and emotionally intense performance from the Yellowstone star Kelly Reilly.
As per The Hollywood Reporter, Watkins met with the DC head James Gunn earlier this week for a final presentation leading up to him taking the director’s seat for the film.
The details concerning the movie and its plot are kept under wraps, however, a brief outlook states that the film will follow an actor star who uses a substance to stay relevant only to be transformed into a shapeshifting creature made of clay.
Watkins’ recent psychological horror thriller, Speak No Evil, starring James McAvoy, also fared well both commercially and critically.
Based on the DC character known for his ability to shapeshift, the movie is written by Mike Flanagan and will reportedly have a budget of $40 million. Production of the film is expected to start later this year.
Why Eden Lake director is the perfect choice as director for Clayface?
Introduced in 1949, Clayface has been one of the most notorious Batman villains in comics. The character was initially introduced as an actor who took on the identity of his film character after turning to the world of crime.
However, over the years, Clayface has evolved into a more complex character with a tragic backstory, often struggling with his identity and desperate desire for a cure.
Given that the film reportedly does not aim to portray him as the notorious villain, it might focus on his struggles to come to terms with his identity. And James Watkins, known for his expertise in character-driven narratives, could present a compelling narrative in this aspect.
Given the tragic and horrifying transformation, Watkins could bring a grounded, emotional horror approach, while also exploring the character’s psychological torment.
However, there still remain challenges, as the film’s synopsis has been considered to closely resemble Demi Moore’s Oscar-nominated body horror film, The Substance.
There have also been discussions of how the film’s director, Coralie Fargeat could bring Clayface to life in unexpected ways. However, with Watkins taking the helm of the film, it will be challenging to avoid comparisons to The Substance.
The Eden Lake director could, however, rely on noir elements and psychological disintegration for the movie to carve out its own identity with a fresh take on one of the most notorious Batman villains.
Clayface is set to release on September 11, 2026.
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