‘Clayface’ Early Reactions Are Positive, But Will DC’s Horror Film Avoid ‘Supergirl’ Pitfalls?

Avatar photoHrvoje Milakovic
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DC Studios has faced challenges at the box office this year, making each new release feel even more significant. With its first body horror film set to premiere next week, the early feedback on ‘Clayface’ is being closely monitored as a potential indicator of the studio’s changing fortunes.

The year began on a high note for the DCU’s film division with ‘Superman’, but ‘Supergirl’ quickly brought things back down. The film received a disappointing 57% from critics on Rotten Tomatoes and managed to earn only $126.4 million globally against a budget estimated between $170 million and $186 million, marking it as a box-office failure. Notably, it was also the first DCU project not helmed by James Gunn.

This context makes Warner Bros.’ decision to lift the social media embargo for ‘Clayface’ particularly noteworthy. The embargo was lifted on Tuesday, October 13, about ten days before the film’s release, which is among the earliest for a DCU film and suggests confidence in the project. The reactions that followed have been overwhelmingly positive, with praise directed at the film written by Mike Flanagan and directed by James Watkins.

Viewers are describing ‘Clayface’ as a gruesome, hard-R film packed with brutal scenes that doesn’t shy away from intensity, yet manages to incorporate humor to balance the darker elements. This blend is seen as a significant tonal shift for the DCU. Tom Rhys Harries has received considerable acclaim, particularly for the film’s romantic components, which some reactions liken to classic gothic romances.

Many reactions also highlight that the movie serves as a true villain origin story rather than following the anti-hero trend. Comparisons to ‘The Fly’ and ‘Darkman’ have emerged, with some viewers labeling it one of the best horror films of the year. Additionally, many agree that it can stand alone without requiring prior DC knowledge.

However, it’s essential to remain cautious. The last DC release, ‘Supergirl’, also saw an early lifting of the social media embargo, which initially led to positive impressions before full reviews revealed a much lower consensus. Some early reactions to ‘Supergirl’ were mixed, praising Milly Alcock’s performance while criticizing an underdeveloped villain.

The same caution applies to ‘Clayface’. The initial reactions largely came from fan-oriented outlets after premiere and screening events, with major critics yet to weigh in. The review embargo is set to lift on October 21, just a day before the Thursday preview screenings on October 22, mirroring the timeline of the previous DC release.

There are notable differences, though. ‘Supergirl’ was a high-budget tentpole with elevated expectations, and its ticket sales plummeted once mixed reviews surfaced. In contrast, ‘Clayface’ has a reported budget of $40 million, meaning it doesn’t need to be a blockbuster to achieve profitability.

Boxoffice Pro’s early tracking estimates a domestic opening between $23 million and $33 million, with more recent projections leaning towards the higher end, estimating around $30 million or more. Earlier surveys indicated that only 32% of people were aware of the film, but those who were informed showed a strong intent to see it on opening weekend at nearly double the usual rate. An analysis of presales at a single theater chain suggested ‘Clayface’ was trailing ‘Resident Evil’, indicating a lower opening around $20 million, although horror audiences are known for purchasing tickets closer to the release date.

The timing also works in its favor. 2026 has been a robust year for horror, with hits like ‘Obsession’, ‘Backrooms’, and ‘Resident Evil’, and ‘Clayface’ is set to release just before Halloween, with previews on October 22 and a full release on October 23. A strong critical reception next week could enhance walk-up sales that presales might not capture.

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