James Gunn is clearing up how Clayface fits within the DCU following the release of the first teaser trailer.
After fans questioned how a full horror movie can exist in the same universe as Superman, Lanterns, and Peacemaker, Gunn said that is exactly the point.
According to Gunn, the DCU is designed to allow different creative voices, tones, and genres while still remaining connected.
James Gunn says Clayface is a full horror film
On Threads, Gunn responded when a fan asked, “@jamesgunn seeing that Clayface seems to be a horror film, is the DCU going to include more films of different genres other than the standard superhero action variety?”
Gunn replied, “Yes. From the start we’ve been clear the DCU would be interconnected but each project would be full expressions of their writers & directors (similar to how DC Comics work – Saga of the Swamp Thing, Justice League International, Killing Joke, & All-Star Squadron are not one tone, and neither are Superman, Lanterns, Peacemaker, & Clayface). The film or show will play in whatever genre suits the story best. Clayface is not a ‘hybrid superhero horror film’, it is a horror film.”
Gunn says different tones are part of the plan
Gunn also addressed the larger question about how such different projects can exist in the same universe.
He first posted, “Since the release of the Clayface trailer people have asked me, ‘How is that going to work? One universe, different feels and genres?’ My answer is just like in the comics where different creative voices and visions inspire each project. Each story has purpose within itself, outside of all others. But another part of the fun can be when seemingly disparate strands come together in an elegant way.”
Gunn doubled down again when another fan asked how darker villains like Clayface and Joker can eventually exist alongside Batman and Superman in future team-up movies. Gunn answered, “Again – just like in the comics. Different creative voices, impulses, and inspirations will drive each project.”
So while Clayface may look and feel completely different from other DCU entries, Gunn says that variety is part of the plan, not a contradiction.
Clayface is connected to the larger DCU
One fan also asked if Clayface is more standalone or if every DCU project is part of a larger connected plan.
Gunn answered, “It’s very connected, but as always the standalone story is what’s most important.”
That means Clayface will still matter to the bigger DCU even as Gunn keeps the focus on telling a complete story that works on its own.
Clayface takes place before Superman
Gunn also confirmed where Clayface falls in the DCU timeline.
When asked if the movie is set before or after Superman, Gunn replied, “Before. It’s the first DCU film out of chronological order.”
That is a notable detail as it means Clayface arrives after other DCU projects in release order, but earlier in the actual timeline.
Clayface opens October 23, 2026, starring Tom Rhys Harries.
