The upcoming Clayface movie has become one of the most talked-about releases within the DC cinematic universe, and not exactly for the usual reasons. A few days before its arrival in theaters, a leak regarding early screenings has cast doubt on something many took for granted: the presence of Batman.
The interest in this film stems from the fact that it moves away from the traditional superhero format. Instead of grand battles or cosmic threats, Clayface is framed as a body horror story focused on transformation and revenge, a tone reminiscent of productions like Joker (2019).
Batman reportedly does not appear or get mentioned in the film
According to the leak, which emerged from screenings held in select theaters, Batman has no presence whatsoever in Clayface. The surprise is not limited to his physical absence: there are allegedly no mentions or indirect references to the character throughout the plot.
Neither Batman nor his civilian identity, Bruce Wayne, appear at any point, which is striking considering the story takes place in Gotham City, the usual setting for his confrontations with the character's rogues' gallery.
The information is even more relevant given that series like Creature Commandos and Lanterns have already confirmed the existence of Batman within this new DCU continuity. However, it has not yet been officially revealed which actor will play him in the movies.
It is expected that the film The Brave and the Bold will be responsible for formally introducing this version of the character, leaving Clayface outside of that introduction.
Rumors about Aaron Paul also appear to be ruled out
Another piece of information that had been circulating for months pointed to a possible appearance by Aaron Paul, known for his role as Jesse Pinkman in Breaking Bad, in the film.
The leak claims that Aaron Paul is not part of the cast of Clayface, which would rule out the theories that linked him in some way to the Batman environment in this new cinematic universe.
A standalone story within the DCU
Beyond the absence of Batman, the leak maintains that Clayface avoids virtually any connection to the rest of the DC Studios productions. There are no references to other Gotham villains or links to Creature Commandos or other previous films.
Even the antagonist responsible for disfiguring Matt Hagen, the protagonist of the story, is a character created specifically for this film, rather than relying on an existing villain from the comics.
If these details are confirmed, Clayface would establish itself as a proposal focused exclusively on its protagonist, without the need to lay the groundwork for future installments of the DC cinematic universe.
Despite this information, it is advisable to remain cautious. The lead actor himself, Tom Rhys Harries, has mentioned in previous statements the existence of Batman in Gotham during the events of the film, although that does not necessarily imply that the character appears on screen.
The leak also points out that the full transformation into Clayface is only shown at the end of the film and briefly, without major confrontations like those usually seen in the comics. Furthermore, despite being a horror film, the scares are said to be scarce, as the focus is on the character's psychological transformation.
The origin of Matt Hagen, the man behind Clayface
The film will tell the origins of Matt Hagen, played by Tom Rhys Harries, a young man from the streets of Gotham who manages to become a Hollywood star.
His career collapses when a crime boss leaves him severely disfigured. Abandoned by those around him and desperate to get his old life back, Hagen decides to undergo an experimental medical treatment.
The procedure restores his physical appearance, but triggers serious consequences for his mental stability. What begins as an attempt to regain his identity turns into a spiral of obsession and revenge.
Creative team and cast
The film is directed by James Watkins, based on a script written by Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini. Flanagan is also credited as the person responsible for the original story.
The cast includes Naomi Ackie, David Dencik, Max Minghella, Eddie Marsan, Nancy Carroll, and Joshua James, along with Tom Rhys Harries in the lead role.
Producers include Matt Reeves, Lynn Harris, James Gunn, and Peter Safran, while the soundtrack is composed by Volker Bertelmann.
Clayface release date
Clayface will arrive in North American theaters on October 23, 2026. It will be then that the public can verify how much truth there is in these leaks and whether the film manages to stand on its own as an independent proposal within the DC universe.
Frequently asked questions
Does Batman appear in the Clayface movie?
According to a recent leak regarding early screenings, Batman does not appear or get mentioned in the film, although this information has not been officially confirmed by DC Studios.
Who plays Clayface in the movie?
Actor Tom Rhys Harries plays Matt Hagen, the character who becomes Clayface throughout the story.
Is Aaron Paul in Clayface?
No. The leaks rule out Aaron Paul's participation in the film, debunking the rumors that had been circulating for months.
Who directs Clayface?
The film is directed by James Watkins, with a script by Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini.
When is Clayface released?
Clayface will be released in North American theaters on October 23, 2026.
Is Clayface connected to other DCU movies or series?
According to the leak, the film avoids relevant connections to other productions in the DC cinematic universe, opting for a standalone story.
