Clayface is beginning to take form. Naomi Ackie, known for her roles in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker and Mickey 17, is in preliminary discussions to lead the upcoming DC Universe film directed by Speak No Evil's James Watkins.
The Hollywood Reporter indicates Ackie recently took part in a table read, emerging as the top choice for the part. Should she officially sign on—with talks reportedly beginning shortly—she will co-star opposite Tom Rhys Harries, a Welsh actor recognized for his work on British television, who is already attached to portray the central character.
Horror maestro Mike Flanagan, celebrated for his extensive adaptations of classics like The Haunting of Hill House and for crafting original stories in both film and television, wrote the screenplay.
The story follows a rising actor whose face is left disfigured after a violent encounter with gangsters. Desperate to restore his former life, he seeks out a dubious scientist—described by THR as an "Elizabeth Holmes-style" analyst, a characterization that is both amusing and intriguing—who administers a seemingly successful treatment. However, this is a body horror film, so a simple happy ending is never in the cards. While Ackie's potential role remains undisclosed, speculation points to her possibly portraying the scientist, which would be a fantastic casting choice.
Per the report, the film is expected to evoke the tone of David Cronenberg's revered 1986 body horror classic, The Fly, starring Jeff Goldblum and Geena Davis. The Batman director Matt Reeves is producing alongside Lynn Harris and DC Studios co-heads James Gunn and Peter Safran.
Clayface is scheduled for theatrical release on September 11, 2026, and anticipation is already building to see which other talents will join the project.
