As Batman villains go, Clayface has acquired something of a cult status, but now he’s showing everybody what he’s made of. His story, and that of alter ego actor Matt Hagen, comes to the big screen this week, courtesy of director James Watkins and the DC Universe in Clayface. And it brings a new style to the DCU. The emphasis is on horror – specifically body horror.
RELATED: See our red carpet interviews from the European Premiere of Clayface here.
We spoke exclusively to Watkins, together with Tom Rhys Harries who plays the titular anti-hero, about the film’s “old school” approach Clayface’s changing appearance. The director explains the reasons behind opting for prosthetics and traditional make up. Despite his many different looks in the film, Rhys Harries reveals he spent less time in the chair than he anticipated. He also describes his own recent Hollywood experience in the run up to the release of the film – including an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!
Plot
He grew up on the streets of Gotham, but now Matt Hagen is the toast of Hollywood – until he falls foul of a notorious crime boss, who doles out a punishment that could put an end to his acting career. Desperate to restore his scarred face to its photogenic best, he volunteers for a treatment which is still at the experimental stage. The scientist behind it restores his good looks, but warns him of possible side effects and they soon kick in. His entire body starts to mutate into a shape-shifting monster made from a clay-like substance and, as his grip on reality starts to weaken, Hagen/Clayface embarks on a path of bloodthirsty vengeance.
Clayface is released in UK cinemas on 23rd October.
