{
  "id": 15957279,
  "title": "Clayface brings a Universal Monster sensibility back to the DC Universe",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/21/clayface-brings-a-universal-monster-sensibility-back-to-the-dc",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-21T19:00:29.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The A.V. Club",
    "slug": "the-a-v-club",
    "url": "https://www.avclub.com/clayface-movie-review-2026"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The DC Universe is getting a visit from an old Universal Monster friend: Clayface. This character, originally known as Basil Karlo, made his first appearance in 1940, and was inspired by horror movies. Unlike the Clayfaces we've seen since, this one doesn't have a clay mask or the ability to shapeshift. Instead, it follows Matt Hagen (Tom Rhys Harries), an actor with a background in the theater, who undergoes mad-science experimentation.\n\nHagen's latest role is brought to life by Harries, who gives the character a striking look. The movie uses clever cuts rather than computerized effects to show Hagen's face changing. The film is budget-friendly, with a gritty, noirish feel that fits within the DC Universe's aesthetic. Despite some shortcomings in depicting body horror, it successfully captures the spirit of mid-tier Universal Monsters sequels. Clayface is a pitiable creature, both for his mutilated appearance and the threats to his career, making for a compelling and terrifying villain.",
  "summary": "Clayface, a small-scale horror thriller based on the DC character, isn't a James Whale-level success, but it's a decent monster B-movie.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}