The DCU Clayface movie is moving forward with screen tests reportedly happening this week. Four actors are said to be on the shortlist: Tom Blyth, Leo Woodall, Jack O’Connell, and George MacKay.
This follows earlier news that the movie underwent a major script overhaul, with production targeting a fall shoot and a 2026 release.
DC Studios Testing for Lead Role
The reported screen tests suggest casting is in the final stages as DC Studios prepares for filming this October in the UK. All four actors have breakout or rising careers:
- Tom Blyth (The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes)
- Leo Woodall (The White Lotus)
- Jack O’Connell (Ferrari, Unbroken)
- George MacKay (1917, The Beast)
There’s been no official confirmation yet, but various scoopers say the role is down to this group.
Page-One Rewrite with New Creative Team
Regarding the overhaul, it was recently reported that Clayface received a complete page-one rewrite. Mike Flanagan had written the original script and wanted to direct, but stepped away due to other commitments.
Hossein Amini (Drive, 47 Ronin, Obi-Wan Kenobi) is now writing the screenplay, with James Watkins (Speak No Evil) directing.
Horror Angle and Story Details
Though unconfirmed, the trades have described Clayface as a horror-thriller tragedy. The film follows a washed-up actor who injects himself with a substance to stay relevant, only to gain terrifying shapeshifting abilities. Rather than a traditional Batman villain, it’s said this version of Clayface will be a tragic figure caught in a monster origin story.
Budget and DCU Connection
James Gunn previously confirmed the film is part of the new DCU and said the movie had officially been greenlit. It’s reportedly being made on a lower budget, around $40 million, in line with a horror movie tone.
Gunn’s announcement called it “a DCU story,” tying it into the broader rebooted universe alongside titles like Superman, Supergirl, and Creature Commandos.
Release Date
Clayface is scheduled to release on September 11, 2026.
It followsSupergirl on June 26, 2026, and Superman on July 11, 2025
