Clayface (2026) Review: A Twisted Gotham Horror Story That Almost Gets Everything Right

I have seen Clayface, and honestly, I think this movie is going to be a mixed bag for a lot of people. The DCU has had its ups and downs so far, but in my opinion, Clayface is one of the better entries in this universe. This is a much darker direction for DC, and I appreciate that the movie is willing to take some chances instead of playing things safe.

Let’s start with the cast, because Tom Rhys Harries is fantastic as Matt Hagen, aka Clayface. I really enjoyed his performance and the way he brings this character to life. He does a great job showing the different sides of Matt, and watching his character go through such a disturbing transformation is one of the strongest parts of the movie. Naomi Ackie is also great as Dr. Caitlyn Corr. She brings something different to the role, and I liked that her character doesn't fall into the usual expectations you might have for a female lead. Max Minghella also makes an impression as Detective John Borrelli, adding another interesting piece to this dark and corrupt world.

Mike Flanagan has put together a story that feels fresh for the DCU. There are moments when the story feels a little muddled, and I do think certain parts could have used more time to develop, but the overall direction works for me. The theme of how one bad day can change a person's life is felt throughout the movie, and it fits this character perfectly. What I appreciate most is that this isn't another attempt to turn a villain into an antihero. This is a story that embraces the darker side of its central character, and I’m glad DC is willing to go in that direction.

We also get our first real taste of Gotham City in this version of the DCU, and it’s just as dirty, corrupt, and dangerous as you would expect. Trust is hard to come by in this city, and that feeling carries throughout the movie. Between the criminal elements, the questionable people Matt encounters, and the corruption surrounding law enforcement, Gotham feels like a place where nobody is completely safe. The atmosphere helps make the movie feel like a proper Gotham story, even without relying on the usual superhero formula.

Now, let’s talk about the body horror, because this is where Clayface really delivers. The practical effects and CGI work together extremely well, creating some genuinely disturbing and gruesome moments. The transformation sequences are uncomfortable in the best way possible, and the movie doesn't shy away from showing the physical horror of what is happening. There were moments when I found myself gripping my seat, and that’s exactly what I want from a movie like this.

The effects feel carefully put together, and the grotesque visuals give the film its own identity. The psychological side of the story is just as important. As Matt struggles with his changing body and his own mental state, the movie becomes more than just a horror film filled with blood and gore. It explores the fear and desperation that come with losing control of yourself. That combination of psychological thriller, body horror, and classic monster-movie elements makes Clayface stand out from other DC projects.

My biggest issue, though, is the pacing. This movie moves way too fast at times, and there are moments when I wish certain scenes had been allowed to breathe a little longer. Some important developments happen, and before you can really sit with them, the movie has already moved on to the next thing. There are also instances where it feels like we're missing conversations or information that should have been shown on screen. That bothered me because I wanted more time to take

in what was happening and see how the characters reacted to these developments. A little more room to let the story unfold would have made a big difference.

Overall, Clayface is one of the DCU’s stronger entries for me. The performances are solid, the body horror is excellent, and the psychological elements give the story a darker edge than we're used to seeing from DC. The pacing holds it back from being as good as it could have been, but there is a lot here that I enjoyed. If you're a fan of horror, especially movies that mix psychological tension with disturbing practical effects and monster-movie influences, this is definitely worth checking out.

Clayface may not work for everybody, but I appreciate what it brings to the DCU. It's dark, unsettling, and different, and I'm glad DC is willing to let a story like this take center stage.