A darker spin on Clayface is already turning heads. Tom Rhys Harries steps into the spotlight with a haunting transformation that has fans talking. The latest footage teases a more intense tone for the DC Universe, and early reactions suggest audiences are fully buying into this eerie new direction.
Fans react to Tom Rhys Harries as Clayface in trailer
The newly released trailer introduces Harries as Matt Hagen, a struggling actor whose life takes a horrific turn. After a brutal knife attack leaves his face disfigured, he undergoes an experimental procedure. At first, it seems to work. But things quickly spiral as his body begins to morph into a clay-like form, allowing him to reshape his appearance at will.
The footage leans heavily into body horror. It shows Hagen in a hospital bed, wrapped in bandages, before chemicals trigger his transformation. In several moments, his face disappears entirely: no eyes, no mouth. One scene even shows him wiping off his face while sitting in a bathtub. Another highlights his ability to reshape his hand into a massive, weapon-like form.
Fans wasted no time reacting online. Many praised the tone and visuals, calling it intense and refreshing. Comments ranged from “Every poster is bone chilling. Like this jaw-dropping one” to “This movie looks ten times better than both of the Joker movies.” Others pushed for an R rating, repeatedly posting, “Please tell me it’s R-rated.” Some even said they plan to skip trailers entirely to experience the film fresh.
The character itself has deep roots in DC history. Clayface first appeared in 1940 as a failed actor turned criminal. Later versions introduced his signature shape-shifting powers. Over the years, he has appeared in multiple shows and video games, including voice performances by Ron Perlman and Alan Tudyk. However, this film marks his major big-screen spotlight.
Directed by James Watkins, the movie is part of James Gunn’s evolving DC Universe. If early reactions are anything to go by, this version of Clayface is already leaving a strong and unsettling impression.
Originally reported by Rishabh Shandilya on Mandatory.
