Clayface marks creative turn for James Gunn's DC Universe
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 23 Oct, 07:20 · Archive
Clayface, a new DC Universe film centred on a shape-shifting villain, stars Welsh actor Tom Rhys Harries as a disfigured Hollywood star.
Clayface, the latest DC Universe film, follows Matt Hagen, a Gotham City actor on the cusp of superstardom who is brutally attacked and disfigured by henchmen working for a mobster named Markos Szabo, in retaliation for Hagen sleeping with Szabo's girlfriend, Mia Torrez. The attack destroys Hagen's career and life overnight.
Welsh actor Tom Rhys Harries stars in the lead role, delivering what reviewers describe as a standout, multi-faceted performance. At 36, Rhys Harries was previously known for roles in the 2024 film The Return alongside Ralph Fiennes and Juliette Binoche, and the television drama The Light in the Hall. He describes the casting process as relatively standard, though he recalls feeling early on that the project was 'something'.
The film represents a significant creative risk for DC Studios under James Gunn and Peter Safran's stewardship. Coming four months after Supergirl underperformed at the box office, Clayface is seen as a test of whether the DCU can embrace unconventional storytelling. While reviewers praise its stylish execution and willingness to explore body-horror themes, they note it hesitates to fully commit to that potential and leaves some elements undercooked.
How it is being reported
- Tom Rhys Harries: ‘I left my dignity at the door for Clayface’The Welsh actor on his breakthrough role in the DCU's first body horror.Metro · 23 Oct, 07:00
- Clayface review: Tom Rhys Harries shines in DCU body horror gamble that largely pays offAs the DC Universe continues to take shape, Clayface proves there's room for big, creative swings in James Gunn's cinematic franchise.TechRadar · 21 Oct, 20:00
In this story: Tom Rhys Harries · James Gunn · Matt Hagen · Markos Szabo · DC Universe · Gotham City
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