‘Clayface’ movie review: messy B-list origin gets a spark of life from its lead actor

*Clayface*, the third film in James Gunn’s new DC Universe, tries to combine comic-book mythology with body horror but falls between the two. Its modest scale and slow build leave the horror underdeveloped, while a lengthy set-up and familiar plot devices weaken the drama and revenge story.

Tom Rhys Harries gives the film its strongest element as Matt Hagen, an actor who undergoes experimental surgery after his face is scarred. His portrayal brings ambiguity to Hagen’s narcissism and changing sense of self, though the script gives him and the supporting characters limited depth. Naomi Ackie plays fringe surgeon Caitlyn Corr, and Max Minghella plays Gotham detective John Borrelli; the review also criticises coincidences, thin worldbuilding and caricatured gangsters.