An unlikely source inspired Clayface.
The new DC Universe film introduces Tom Rhys Harries as Matt Hagen, an actor in Gotham City who faces disfigurement. He undergoes an experimental treatment that gives him the power to shapeshift – but also transforms him into the villain Clayface. Directed by James Watkins (known for Speak No Evil), the movie will feature intense body horror. But it won’t just focus on Clayface’s frightening abilities; the R-rated film will delve into how much of Matt Hagen remains inside the monstrous form.
During an interview with ScreenRant’s Ash Crossan at San Diego Comic-Con, actor Harries talked about a classic horror film that inspired the new DCU project. He specifically mentioned Jeff Goldblum’s character in The Fly, and how the character’s disturbing transformation in David Cronenberg’s 1986 film was a key influence. You can find Harries’ complete statement below.
We drew a lot of inspiration from David Cronenberg’s The Fly, particularly the way Jeff Goldblum portrays his character’s humanity as he transforms into an insect. It’s amazing how much of himself he retains even while physically changing.
Jeff Goldblum starts The Fly as a likable, if eccentric, scientist. His experiment to teleport objects goes horribly wrong when a fly accidentally gets transported with him. As Goldblum’s character, Seth, begins to transform, the changes become increasingly disturbing. However, Goldblum skillfully portrays the man beneath the gruesome effects, making his ultimate fate more heartbreaking than scary. This delicate balance is key to the film’s emotional impact, particularly in Harries’ portrayal of Matt.
Clayface is one of Batman’s most frightening villains, but his power to change shape often overshadows the person underneath the monstrous appearance. If the actor playing Clayface can portray the same relatable humanity that Jeff Goldblum brought to the role, viewers might actually feel sympathy for him, even when he’s a threat. A solo movie gives the DC Universe a chance to explore this by focusing on the character’s transformation from his point of view.
Harries isn’t the only one working on Clayface who was influenced by David Cronenberg’s films. Director James Watkins told Deadline that The Fly set a standard for making transformations feel realistic and genuine, and he aimed for that same effect with Matt’s character. While promising “a lot of unsettling visuals and gore,” Watkins emphasized that the story will also be emotionally driven, focusing on the character’s sadness and heartbreak.
Both artists highlighted the significant impact of The Fly on the creation of Clayface. Watkins used Cronenberg’s film as a reference for making Matt’s transformation convincing, focusing on how it would look and feel realistic. Harries was inspired by Jeff Goldblum’s performance, aiming to maintain audience sympathy for Clayface even as the character changed.
The upcoming film Clayface, directed by Watkins, features Naomi Ackie, Max Minghella, Eddie Marsan, David Dencik, Nancy Carroll, and Joshua James. It will be released in theaters on October 23, 2026.
2026-07-24 22:07