# Clayface - the $40M horror gamble

> DC Studios makes $40M horror film for 75% less cash than superhero movies.
- Title: Clayface - the $40M horror gamble · mint | Shortify
- Summary: DC Studios makes $40M horror film for 75% less cash than superhero movies. DC Studios produced Clayface, a $40 million horror film with practical effects, to…
- Keywords: dc studios, clayface, practical effects, horror film, superhero movie, budget reduction, james watkins, tom rhys harries, matt hagen, mike flanagan, peter safran, james gunn
- Source: mint — https://livemint.com/entertainment/clayface-the-40m-horror-gamble-how-dc-built-a-movie-for-75-less-cash-11792604524632.html
- Author: Trisha Bhattacharya
- Published: 2026-10-21T18:36:53+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: dc studios, clayface, practical effects, horror film, superhero movie, budget reduction, james watkins, tom rhys harries, matt hagen, mike flanagan, peter safran, james gunn
## DC Studios' $40M horror film
DC Studios is making Clayface, a $40 million horror film that uses practical effects instead of big superhero spectacle.
## Budget reduction strategy
The film's $40 million budget is 80% less than a hypothetical $200 million superhero production.
## Character-driven story
Clayface stars Tom Rhys Harries as Matt Hagen, an actor who transforms after facial disfigurement.
## Horror filmmaking approach
The film uses practical effects to create tangible physical transformations and horror.
## Creative team and production
Mike Flanagan developed the project with DC Studios, while James Gunn and Peter Safran lead production.
## R-rated horror focus
The film is rated R in the US for bloody violence and horror content.
## Budget risk and opportunity
The film tests if smaller superhero budgets can attract audiences without blockbuster spending.
## Key takeaway

DC Studios produced Clayface, a $40 million horror film with practical effects, to test if smaller budgets can work for superhero stories.