James Gunn Debunks 'Clayface' Rewrite Rumors

DC Studios co-head James Gunn has shut down rumors of a major rewrite for the upcoming Clayface film, affirming that the project remains true to writer Mike Flanagan’s original vision. Addressing a fan’s question on Threads, Gunn, a self-proclaimed “Flanafan,” clarified, “It’s all Mike’s story. That’s WHY we’re making this movie, because we loved it. Any changes as the shooting script is finalized are minor.” This response quashes speculation sparked by reports that screenwriter Hossein Amini was brought on to overhaul Flanagan’s script.

Quietly greenlit last year outside the initial DCU Chapter One slate, Clayface has been steadily progressing. The film recently gained momentum with the casting of White Lines star Tom Rhys Harries in the lead role. Gunn praised Harries, stating, “After a long and incredibly exhaustive search, we finally have our DCU Clayface in Tom Rhys Harries. Both Matt Reeves and I were just blown away by this guy, and can’t wait for you to see this film.”

“Huh? It’s all Mike’s story. That’s WHY we’re making this movie, because we loved it. Any changes as the shooting script is finalized are minor. I’m a Flanafan myself.”

Directed by James Watkins (The Woman in Black), Clayface draws heavy inspiration from the iconic Batman: The Animated Series two-part episode “Feat of Clay.” Flanagan confirmed this influence, noting, “That is the world I wanted to live in. Batman: The Animated Series when I was growing up was my Batman.” The episode, featuring Ron Perlman’s voice work, shaped Flanagan’s approach to the shape-shifting antihero.

While not officially part of Gunn’s Gods and Monsters slate, Clayface is set to carve its own niche in the DCU. The film is slated for release on September 11, 2026, following the DCU’s official launch with Superman in July 2025. With Flanagan’s vision intact and Harries in the starring role, Clayface promises to bring a haunting, horror-infused twist to the evolving DC Universe.

Stay tuned for more updates as the DCU continues to take shape!