‘Clayface’ Director Inspired by Sam Raimi and Brian De Palma

James Watkins sought to find a balance between extreme horror and dark humor.

Clayface director James Watkins discussed the main sources of inspiration for the new DC Universe film. The movie was heavily influenced by The Evil Dead and other horror films by Sam Raimi, in which violence exists alongside absurdity and dark humor:

“There is definitely a certain Sam Raimi influence there. He knows how to push horror almost to the point of absurdity and combine it with humor. I am talking about absurdity in a good way. He goes so far that we all think, ‘God, this is already too much,’ but we understand that it is intentional and accept the rules of the game. I was inspired by the boldness of his approach.”

James Watkins

Watkins also named the work of Brian De Palma, who directed Carrie, Scarface, and The Untouchables, as an important reference point. The director did not share details, noting that viewers will notice the filmmaker’s influence for themselves while watching.

Clayface will focus on Hollywood actor Matt Hagen, whose body begins to undergo frightening changes. Watkins previously promised not to show the character’s final transformation in promotional materials, meaning audiences will see the monster’s full appearance for the first time only in theaters. Released trailers showed only separate consequences of the transformation, including a scene with stuck-together eyelids that horrified even members of the crew.

Clayface will premiere on October 23.

Related articles