‘Clayface’ Review: DC Studios’ Batman Villain Origin Story Is a Bona Fide Body-Horror Delight

DC Studios’ *Clayface* turns a long-running Batman villain’s origin into a body-horror film, following actor Matt Hagen’s transformation after a violent attack and an experimental treatment. The review calls it a surprising success, with horror at its centre and a sympathetic character whose pursuit of revenge pushes him towards madness.

Tom Rhys Harries plays Hagen, whose face is disfigured by Gotham crime boss Markos Szabos; scientist Caitlyn Corr uses nanotechnology to restore it, but an excessive dose gives Hagen the power to change his appearance. Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini wrote the screenplay, while director James Watkins combines practical effects and CGI. The film also follows the growing bond between Hagen and Corr, as her fiancé, a rare uncorrupt Gotham police officer, investigates deaths linked to Hagen.