Naomi Ackie Eyed for DCU's Clayface Horror Film

The Clayface project is gaining momentum, with Naomi Ackie from ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker’ and ‘Mickey 17’ currently in early negotiations to lead the forthcoming DCU film directed by James Watkins of ‘Speak No Evil’.

The Hollywood Reporter revealed that Ackie recently took part in a table read, where she quickly emerged as the top choice for the part. Should she formally sign on—and insiders say talks are set to begin shortly—she will appear opposite Tom Rhys Harries, the Welsh actor famed for his British TV roles, who has already been cast in the titular role.

The screenplay was written by renowned horror filmmaker Mike Flanagan, celebrated for his acclaimed adaptations like ‘The Haunting of Hill House’ as well as original stories for both film and television.

The story revolves around an up-and-coming actor whose face is brutally disfigured by criminals. Desperate to restore his appearance, he seeks out a controversial scientist—described by THR as an “Elizabeth Holmes–type” figure, a detail that adds both intrigue and dark humor—who performs a seemingly successful procedure. But as this is a body horror film, complications are sure to follow. While Ackie's role remains undisclosed, speculation suggests she may portray the scientist, which would be a brilliant casting choice.

Per reports, the film is expected to capture the tone of David Cronenberg’s iconic 1986 body horror masterpiece ‘The Fly’, starring Jeff Goldblum and Geena Davis. ‘The Batman’ director Matt Reeves is producing, alongside Lynn Harris and DC Studios co-chairs James Gunn and Peter Safran.

Slated for a theatrical release on September 11, 2026, the project is already generating excitement over which actors will join the ensemble next.