Clayface star plays Elden Ring to manage screen testing anxiety
Tom Rhys Harries, the star set to embody the fearsome Clayface, shared some unexpectedly revealing insights into his preparation for the role during the screen testing phase for the DC Universe film. Far from focusing solely on cinematic intensity, Harries found solace in the digital world, revealing a surprising habit that might just explain his calm demeanor while preparing for the transformation.
During the intense months of screen testing, Harries turned to the immersive world of gaming. He confessed that he played Elden Ring to help switch his brain off and manage the mounting anxiety of the process. He noted that the game provided a necessary escape, admitting that it seemed to speak directly to his level of anxiety throughout the entire period.
This contrast between the high-stakes world of cinema and the escapism of gaming sets a unique tone for the upcoming project. While Harries found peace in virtual lands, the reality he was preparing for involved some truly epic storytelling. The Clayface script itself, penned by Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini, drew high praise from the star.
Harries spoke highly of the narrative depth, describing the script as a “Greek tragedy” filled with endless scope. He felt the story possessed a profound depth that allowed for endless exploration of human nature, suggesting that the foundation for the character’s complexity was already incredibly solid before any visual transformation began.
The project is anchored by an impressive ensemble cast, including Cailee Spaeny, Ben Whishaw, and Nick Offerman. Bringing this vision to life behind the camera and in the scripting is the noted gamer and prolific writer/director, Alex Garland, adding another layer of creative depth to the production.
As audiences await the cinematic spectacle, there is keen anticipation regarding the visual aspects of the transformation. Although trailers have teased the monstrous changes, Harries remains deliberately enigmatic about the full extent of the body horror, suggesting that the true final form of the villain will be revealed only when the film hits the big screen.
The Clayface feature is set to hit cinemas on October 23, offering a thrilling cinematic experience. Meanwhile, fans of immersive fantasy can look forward to the Elden Ring movie, which is slated for release on March 3, 2028. It is a fascinating convergence of gaming escapism and cinematic terror, promising a truly unique experience for movie lovers.
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