Arkham’s jarring Batman baddie inspired Clayface star Tom Rhys Harries

The upcoming DC body horror spectacle, Clayface, is more than just a cinematic event; it’s a deep dive into the psychological unraveling of a beloved character. While many look for inspiration in classic comic lore, the true roots of this visceral experience lie unexpectedly in video game history and seminal graphic novels.

In a recent interview, actor Matt Hagen and Tom Rhys Harries revealed that their vision for the film was subtly shaped by the world of Batman video games. They pointed out that the depiction of the shapeshifting villain was inspired by the lore established in the Batman Arkham games, establishing a foundation for how this transformation might unfold on screen.

Harries further connected the cinematic vision to literary influences, naming A Serious House on Serious Earth by Grant Morrison and Dave McKean as an influence for his interpretation of the character Matt Hagen.

The connection to gaming extended even further. Harries noted that the depiction of Clayface in Arkham Asylum provided a moment that was both effective and psychologically jarring, setting a tone for the character’s descent.

It is interesting to note that while the Arkham games are widely celebrated for their narrative strength, the Clayface character within that universe offered limited dialogue—a mere three lines when not imitating the Joker. This subtle lack of depth suggests that the true psychological impact of the transformation will be reserved for the film itself, rather than preceding it.

The filmmakers and DC leadership are aiming for a significantly different approach to superhero cinema. According to co-CEO Peter Safran, the project is not simply a villain story but an exploration of genuine physical and mental distress, describing it as “the true body horror of a Cronenberg-type movie.”

This focus on psychological depth reflects a broader strategy for the DC Universe. Following some commercial shifts in recent projects, Safran and James Gunn are not judging individual successes by single releases but are focused instead on “expanding the tonal range of the DC universe,” ensuring a more varied and mature cinematic experience.

Clayface is set to hit theaters on October 23. The release promises a spectacle that blends classic Gotham iconography with uncomfortable, visceral themes, signaling a fresh, bold direction for the superhero genre.