'Clayface' Threatens DCU's Limits with Unrestrained R-Rated Violence

Collider’s Steve Weintraub recently sat down with actors Tom Rhys Harries and Naomi Ackie to discuss their upcoming film, 'Clayface.' The movie is poised to be the DCU’s inaugural venture into Gotham City, offering a narrative that transcends a simple villain’s origin story, as highlighted by Harries and Ackie. Originally conceived by Mike Flanagan, 'Clayface' is presented as a twisted body horror film that will introduce audiences to Batman’s gloomy metropolis, but its true depth lies in the compelling bonds at its core, making Matt Hagen’s story particularly impactful.

The film centers on Matt Hagen (portrayed by Harries), a quintessential rags-to-riches figure in Gotham who ascends from poverty to become a celebrated Hollywood star. However, his success is shattered when a local crime boss disfigures him, leaving him abandoned by his team. With seemingly nothing left to lose, Matt seeks out an experimental treatment that initially appears to restore him to his former glory but ultimately leads him down a path of uncontrollable descent. Naomi Ackie co-stars as Caitlyn Corr, and Max Minghella plays John Borrelli, adding further layers to the intricate narrative.

Harries and Ackie delved into the romantic relationship that serves as the tragic catalyst for Matt’s destruction, emphasizing its role as the anchor of the entire film. Harries humorously noted that Matt believes he's in a romantic comedy throughout, only to be "jump-scared" by the realization that he's actually in a psychological horror, questioning, "Am I the monster?" Ackie added that this love story significantly enhances the film’s tragic elements, ensuring that audiences care deeply about the characters' plight, which in turn amplifies the sense of loss.

The actors also discussed the film’s suitability for the DCU, despite its boundary-pushing script and intense content. Ackie expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "Damn right!" and feeling it was a perfect fit. Harries echoed this sentiment, advocating for the DCU to take such risks. He believes this presents a unique opportunity for the franchise to explore various genres, including horror, and to continually push creative envelopes. Both actors were excited by how faithfully the on-page script translated into the cinematic experience, confirming that what they read became what was seen on screen.

One of the most anticipated aspects of 'Clayface' is its visceral practical effects, particularly an elaborate latex suit dubbed "The Maggot." Harries described this suit as being drenched in "thick liquid… goo," a practical effect that left him "on his last legs" during filming, though Ackie recalled it as a "fun day" for everyone else. This specific sequence is expected to make audiences "freak out" and "love it," showcasing the film’s commitment to extreme body horror. Initial screenings have already shown audiences reacting loudly with horror and cackles, indicating the film's success in eliciting strong responses.

Beyond the R-rated violence and body horror, the film’s compelling love story adds significant depth, transforming it into a more profound tragedy. The overall message, as humorously suggested by the actors, might include advice against doing drugs with strangers and the importance of therapy. 'Clayface' promises a unique and intense cinematic experience, pushing the boundaries of what audiences expect from a DC film. The movie is scheduled to open in theaters on October 23.