Clayface Set Photos Reveal Movie’s Historic DCU Timeline Placement

by

A fresh photo from the set of the upcoming ‘Clayface‘ movie might hint at its position within the storied DC Universe timeline. The forthcoming film, written by Mike Flanagan of ‘Doctor Sleep’ fame and directed by James Thomas Watkins (‘Speak No Evil’), is poised to be the first production by DC Studios to delve into James Gunn’s innovative interpretation of Batman lore. Set in Gotham City and centered around a famous Batman adversary, this movie promises to bring a fresh take on the classic Batman storyline.

Due to the strong ties between the film and the Dark Knight, several hints or references (often called Easter eggs) have emerged suggesting that the character might appear in the adult-rated DC Universe film. These hints have included allusions to The Joker, a sneak peek at the film’s unexpected plot twist, and most recently, something that may establish the movie’s position within the DC Universe’s timeline.

Enthusiastic viewers have discovered a poster featuring the Flying Graysons on the set of Clayface in Liverpool, England, which could hint at the historical setting of the 2026 DCU film, as reported by DCU Prime TV.

Currently, the first season of “Peacemaker” holds the distinction of being the earliest project within the DC Universe timeline so far, airing several months before the storyline of James Gunn’s “Superman.” However, a piece of promotional artwork within the universe suggests that “Clayface” might even predate this.

It’s been noted that the version of Batman we saw in a brief appearance in “Creature Commandos” has advanced significantly in his career as the Dark Knight, to the point where he’s already working with his fifth Robin, Damian Wayne.

To have the Flying Graysons present during the Clayface storyline, it would be necessary for that event to occur several years prior to when Dick Grayson became the first Robin, working alongside Batman.

In the world of comics, Dick Grayson tragically loses his parents, John and Mary, also known as the Flying Graysons. This heartbreaking event leads Bruce Wayne, or Batman, to take young Dick under his wing, setting him on a path to eventually become Robin, the first version of the Boy Wonder.

If the Flying Graysons are continuing their activities during the time when Clayface occurs, then this movie would either represent the first film in the DC Universe timeline so far, or James Gunn’s interconnected DC universe is poised to redefine the Batman lore like never before.

The possibility exists that the poster you see could be an old one, lingering in Gotham’s Amusement Mile district. However, considering the antiquated appearance and style of the posters around it, it is highly probable that the movie depicted is set before any other title within the recently launched superhero series with enhanced powers.

Clayface is known as a grisly, R-rated portrayal of body horror within the modern DC universe. It revolves around a struggling actor who, after receiving brutal injuries and disfigurement at the hands of a local thug, seeks out a scientist offering an experimental treatment to mold his body into clay.

In this film, Tom Rhys Harries takes on the role of the main antagonist from DC Comics, while Naomi Ackie, Max Minghella, and Eddie Marsan also star.

The DCU’s Batman Canon Takes Shape

Regardless of the fact that the Batman film from the DC Universe (“The Brave and the Bold”) appears to be several years off, the portrayal of the Batman mythos within the franchise has steadily evolved.

Projects such as Clayface serve as foundational steps for the Caped Crusader, ensuring that when The Brave and the Bold debuts, fans can recognize the specific version of Batman being presented, understand his current superhero status, and be aware of the events that have shaped him and the people around him, leading to the hero’s current situation.

James Gunn’s approach to character development, as seen with the reference to Flying Grayson, suggests a probable introduction of a super-powered setup for the upcoming DC Universe’s Batman.

Perhaps, instead of the Flying Graysons’ demise occurring in a traditional Batman film, this pivotal comic book event could transpire in a movie like “Clayface”. This would enable the presentation of a significant Batman story arc, while simultaneously preserving the character’s appearance and feel that will be showcased when “Brave and the Bold” premieres.

According to Gunn, he envisions the DC Universe resembling Star Wars, suggesting that individual movies can freely enter and exit the timeline without adhering strictly to a linear narrative structure.

Exploring Clayface’s storyline during the formative years of Gotham City within the DC Universe might offer a compelling illustration of this narrative approach, as it lays the groundwork for events that unfold prior to Batman’s solo film debut within the franchise.

Read More

2025-09-11 22:35