DC's latest big-screen experiment, Clayface, has finally faced the critics, and the verdict is in: it's a solid but divisive start for the DCU's first R-rated horror outing. The movie, which stars Tom Rhys Harries as the shape-shifting villain Matt Hagen, currently holds a 77% Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 44 reviews. That's a promising number, but as more critics weigh in, the score could shift.
The film, directed by James Watkins and written by Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini, leans hard into body horror, a fitting choice for a character whose very existence is a nightmare of transformation. Critics are largely praising the movie for embracing its gruesome premise, with many calling it a bold and effective horror flick. However, some are less impressed with the story's execution, noting that it struggles to find a consistent tone or a clear focus.
What the Critics Are Saying
Early reactions have been overwhelmingly positive on the horror front. Linda Marric of HeyUGuys calls Clayface "a gamble that pays off," while Peter Gray from The AU Review describes it as "a gruesome, uncompromising and unexpectedly affecting descent into villainy." These reviews suggest that DC's decision to let a monster movie be a monster movie is resonating with audiences who crave something different from the usual superhero fare.
But not everyone is on board. IndieWire's Kate Erbland criticizes the film's plotting and character motivations, writing that it "can never conform to one shape, one final form, or one good idea." This split reaction is typical for a film that takes risks, and it's clear that Clayface is not playing it safe.
The Story of Matt Hagen
In the film, Matt Hagen is a Gotham actor whose career is built on his looks. When a local crime boss leaves him disfigured, his life falls apart. Desperate to reclaim his former glory, he undergoes an experimental treatment that restores his appearance—but at a terrible cost. As his body begins to betray him, Matt's grip on reality slips, and his quest for revenge turns him into something monstrous.
The cast includes Naomi Ackie, Max Minghella, David Dencik, and Eddie Marsan, with Nancy Carroll and Joshua James in supporting roles. The film is produced by Matt Reeves, Lynn Harris, James Gunn, and Peter Safran, bringing together the minds behind The Batman and the new DCU. It's a collaboration that promises to explore Gotham's rogues gallery in a fresh, terrifying way.
A Halloween Treat for Horror Fans
With its October 23 release, Clayface arrives just in time for Halloween, giving horror enthusiasts a new reason to hit the theaters. The film's R-rating allows it to push boundaries, and early buzz suggests it delivers on that promise. For those curious about how this fits into the larger DCU, our analysis of the film's Gotham connections offers some insights.
As the opening weekend approaches, the conversation around Clayface will likely evolve. General audiences will have their say, and the Rotten Tomatoes score may fluctuate. But for now, the early consensus is that DC has taken a bold step into horror, and it's paying off for most. If you're a fan of scary movies this October, this one is worth checking out.
Whether Clayface will become a lasting hit or a cult favorite remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: it's a movie that isn't afraid to get its hands dirty, and that's something to celebrate in a genre often dominated by formula. So, is the Rotten Tomatoes score good? At 77%, it's a solid start, and for horror fans, it might just be the perfect Halloween treat.
