DC Studios held the first screenings of "Clayface," a new horror film about actor Matt Hagen, who transforms into a vengeful monster after experimental treatment. Journalists have already shared their impressions on social media. Judging by their reviews, director James Watkins managed to create a brutal and inventive film, behind whose bloody scenes lies a tragic story.
Chris Killian from ComicBook called "Clayface" incredible and particularly praised how the film combines body horror with gothic romance:
"Clayface" is incredible! It turns Matt Hagen's tragic backstory into an insanely bloody spectacle. There are absolutely crazy and unusual body horror scenes that make you feel uneasy. But what I liked most is that the film also warmly takes us back to classic gothic love stories."
Brandon Davis, host of the Phase Hero podcast, was also thrilled. He praised Gotham's dark atmosphere, Watkins' direction, and Tom Rhys Harries' performance:
"Clayface" is damn good. Watkins created an unsettling Gotham and very inventively used Clayface's abilities. It's full of creepy, dark scenes and twisted ideas. Tom Rhys Harries is a star both in his role and thanks to his performance. He's simply brilliant."
Steven Weintraub from Collider noted the film's brutality. According to him, the creators fully utilized the adult R rating:
"Clayface" turned out fantastic. A great addition to the DC cinematic universe that requires no prior knowledge of DC to watch. The film more than justifies its R rating — it's full of brutal scenes that genuinely surprised me. In my screening, the audience was horrified by what was happening on screen several times."
Miguel Araujo also considers "Clayface" a success for DC Studios. However, he noted that the film's modest budget sometimes shows:
"Clayface" is a success for DC. The film focuses more on character and body horror than on superheroics, and that works in its favor. The small budget limits its possibilities in places, but overall it works."
These are just the initial impressions of journalists on social media. Full reviews will appear on October 21, when the embargo on reviews lifts and the film begins its international release.