Mike Flanagan’s Clayface Movie May Have Finally Locked In A Director

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Summary

  • Mike Flanagan, writer of the Clayface movie, is too busy to direct it, so James Watkins could possibly take over the directorial duties.
  • The film will focus on Basil Karlo, the first Clayface, and explore themes of identity and transformation.
  • Clayface is set to be released on September 11, 2026.

A new DC Universe film is on its way, and it appears to be moving forward favorably. It looks like Clayface might have secured a director to replace Mike Flanagan, as he’s currently occupied and can’t direct the movie he penned.

Flanagan has been eagerly planning a movie centering around DC Comics villain, Clayface. He voiced his enthusiasm for this venture back in January 2021 and presented the concept to DC Studios’ co-chairmen and co-CEOs James Gunn and Peter Safran in March 2023. By December 2024, Flanagan was appointed as the scriptwriter for the Clayface movie; however, due to his current workload, he won’t be able to direct it. As of late, there are rumors suggesting that a new director might soon take over the project.

During the past weekend, numerous discussions revolved around Flanagan’s upcoming movie “Clayface” and who might be directing it. Back in December, there were indications that J.A Bayona (known for “The Impossible” and “Society of the Snow”) could take charge of the project. However, recent speculations suggest that Jeff Wadlow (“Imaginary”, “Fantasy Island”) and James Watkins (“Speak No Evil”) were also being considered for this highly anticipated DCU film. Nevertheless, it has been clarified by The Hollywood Reporter that the rumors about Wadlow being a potential director are unfounded. Unnamed sources informed the publication, “Wadlow is not under consideration.” It seems that his name was never brought up in discussions regarding directing “Clayface”. However, it appears that James Watkins is likely to secure the position. As of now, Watkins has yet to meet with Gunn and Safran for this project. However, a meeting between them is expected to take place soon.

It appears that Mike Flanagan is not able to direct the upcoming Clayface movie because he’s already committed to other projects. He’s currently tied up with a Carrie TV series and the reboot of The Exorcist. Previously, it was mentioned that his Clayface movie would blend horror, thriller, and tragedy genres. This film will revolve around Basil Karlo, the original Clayface who first appeared in Detective Comics #40 back in 1940. Basil is a B-list actor known for his roles in horror movies, but he becomes unhinged when he learns that one of his films is set to be remade without him. In response, he dons a mask and begins killing those associated with the project. Initially lacking power, Basil gains shape-shifting abilities in later adaptations. The DC Studios head confirmed the Clayface movie on social media in December.

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Despite no formal announcements about the upcoming Clayface film, rumors suggest it will delve into a struggling actor’s tale and offer a chilling exploration of the dark side of Hollywood – a plot line that echoes Basil’s character, who commits multiple murders as his career crumbles. Fans eagerly anticipate themes of identity, transformation, and the perils of fame to be explored in this movie. The project has been likened to the 2023 horror film The Substance, starring Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, and Dennis Quaid, due to their shared focus on identity, terrifying elements, and shape-shifting themes. However, it’s important to remember that Clayface was conceived before The Substance, so claims of one being a copycat are unfounded. Nevertheless, comparisons between the two horror films may resurface once the movie is released.

Clayface will be released on September 11, 2026.

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2025-02-18 00:09