AceShowbiz - DC Studios has officially greenlit a feature film based on the Batman villain Clayface, written by "Doctor Sleep" filmmaker Mike Flanagan, according to sources. The film will explore the horror/thriller/tragedy elements of the character's story, as Flanagan previously expressed interest in developing it.

Plot details remain under wraps, but production is expected to commence early next year. Matt Reeves and Lynn Harris will produce through their company 6th & Idaho Productions.

Despite Flanagan's commitments to "The Exorcist" for Universal and "Carrie" for Amazon MGM Studios, DC Studios has been seeking a director to helm the Clayface project, with an announcement anticipated soon.

Clayface, a classic Batman antagonist, has undergone various iterations since his introduction in 1940. Initially a washed-up actor turned criminal using a clay-like mask, he later gained the ability to shapeshift. The character has been portrayed in live-action and animated "Batman" adaptations, notably by Ron Perlman, Brian McManamon and Alan Tudyk.

The greenlighting of the Clayface film demonstrates DC Studios' commitment to diverse storytelling tones under co-chiefs James Gunn and Peter Safran. Gunn emphasized their intention to create a wide spectrum of content, from family-friendly to violent and sexual. The film aligns with their vision of a world where different characters and genres coexist within the DC universe.