Did ‘The Substance’ Inspire the DCU’s Upcoming ‘Clayface’ Movie?

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Among all Batman villains and lesser-known DC characters, why select Clayface for the limelight in the newly established DCU? Given Gunn’s history of creating horror films, his affinity for this genre is evident. For instance, he directed 2006’s Slither, 2016’s The Belko Experiment, and 2019’s Brightburn.

Could it be that the swift progression of the Clayface solo movie in the new DCU is due to the fact that its script was inspired by a highly successful horror film from last year? It’s surprising, as the body horror genre has appeared to dwindle in mainstream releases for some time now. Apart from Evil Dead Rise in 2023, many other contemporary horror films in this niche have had limited screenings or gone directly to streaming platforms like Infinity Pool, Hellraiser, and When Evil Lurks.

The situation took a dramatic turn when Demi Moore assumed the part of Elisabeth Sparkle in the 2024 movie, “The Substance.” Previously recognized for her awards, this fictional actress is now grappling with her aging body, leading her to use an unauthorized, illegal drug in a desperate attempt to preserve her youth. The outcome mirrors the quote by Gunn perfectly: “raw, authentic, psychological, and grotesque horror.

‘The Substance’ Popularized Body Horror Again

In the depicted scene, Elisabeth’s image symbolizes societal perceptions of women, transforming in a chilling manner. Initially, she convulses violently, then rapidly ages, eventually morphing into a grotesque form with elongated skin and disarranged facial features. This new figure can regenerate body parts if they are severed (such as decapitation or cutting). Over time, this once-human form evolves into a malleable living entity, yearning for attention despite the hardships and pain it endures. The team behind the production of The Substance has certainly earned their accolades, as the film effectively combines elements of horror and fascination.

It’s quite evident that the resemblances are numerous. Since Lanterns was labeled as having the feel of True Detective and Paradise Lost was tagged as a drama similar to Game of Thrones, it appears that filmmaker Mike Flannagan may have found a successful formula. Could a new DC project have a higher likelihood of being approved if its themes align with a successful Hollywood production? Just seven months following the premiere of The Substance at the Cannes Film Festival (May 19, 2024), he identified the one DC character whose story arc mirrors Elisabeth’s, presented his idea, and the rest is now legend. However, it’s important to remember that art often imitates art.

32 years ago, “Batman: The Animated Series” showcased a two-part storyline named “Feat of Clay,” which introduced the character Clayface. Essentially, the tale revolved around Matt Hagen, a renowned actor, who discovered a miracle serum that kept him youthful for the public eye. However, during a heated confrontation, Hagen received an overdose of this substance, causing his human-like attributes to disappear and transforming him into a horrifying, amorphous clay monster. In the final scene reminiscent of “The Substance,” Hagen’s new form enabled him to melt into a gooey puddle, slithering through the streets of Gotham City (much like Sparkle, he didn’t manage to travel far in this state).

Could it plausibly be contended that the project, impressive as it was in delivering a message, was essentially crafted from an older Batman animated series? Indeed, it served as inspiration. However, the sudden greenlighting of a live-action Clayface movie just seven months after Fargeat’s body horror masterpiece garnered widespread critical acclaim feels more than a mere coincidence. It’s exciting to see another Batman villain taking center stage post-The Penguin, something many have long anticipated. Yet, one can’t help but wonder if the Clayface movie would have ever materialized without The Substance paving the way?

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2025-03-09 04:06