AceShowbiz - After months of speculation, DC Studios finally announced director for the upcoming "Clayface" movie. James Watkins, known for his work on "Speak No Evil," a remake of the 2022 Danish psychological horror-thriller, was confirmed to sit at the helm.

Watkins has a proven track record in the horror genre. His previous works include the gripping "Eden Lake," the ghostly "The Woman in Black," and the thrilling "The Take."

DC co-bosses James Gunn and Peter Safran, along with "The Batman" helmer Matt Reeves and Lynn Harris, will produce the film, with Chantal Nong serving as executive producer. Mike Flanagan penned the script.

"Clayface," slated for a September 11, 2026 release, promises a fresh take on the Batman villain. Initially introduced in Detective Comics #40 in June 1940, the character was a moderately successful actor who turned to crime, adopting the identity of a grotesque character he once portrayed.

Made on a modest budget of $40 million, the film will offer a new interpretation of his origin, focusing on a B-movie actor who injects himself with a substance to stay relevant, only to discover he can reshape his face and form, becoming a walking piece of clay.

Although casting has yet to commence, there is speculation about potential actors. Many actors who voice characters in DC Studios' animated projects may reprise their roles in live-action. Alan Tudyk, Ron Perlman, and Brian McManamon are among those who have previously brought the character to life in various formats.

This new film iteration of "Clayface" offers an exciting opportunity to delve into the complexities of a lesser-known DC character. As filming is set to begin later this year, fans can look forward to a unique and grounded horror-tragedy-thriller that expands the DC cinematic universe in unexpected ways.