The ambitious DC Studios reboot helmed by James Gunn is gaining significant momentum, and the co-CEO recently offered encouraging updates on two of the most highly-anticipated projects featuring the world of Batman: the Elseworlds sequel The Batman Part II and the DCU-canon horror film Clayface.
Gunn’s overhaul of the DC Universe, though sometimes divisive among the most dedicated fans of the previous era, is clearly hitting its stride. His latest Superman film proved its commercial appeal with big box office numbers and a record-breaking streaming debut on HBO Max. Now, with the hype surrounding major 2026 and 2027 DCU films like Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow and Superman: Man of Tomorrow, the focus is expanding to the dark corners of Gotham.
Status Report from the DC Boss
In a recent update shared via social media, Gunn provided a quick but substantial check-in on the progress of both films, confirming that they are advancing smoothly and without the delays plaguing other projects.
“I’m supporting The Batman 2 team to make sure everything goes smoothly, I’m waiting for the first cut of Clayface (I can’t wait!), and approving designs for all sorts of things,” Gunn stated.
This is great news for fans eager for their next dose of Gotham, particularly as other announced projects, such as the Lanterns series, have seen their release schedule pushed back (from an early 2026 projection to late summer 2026). The steady progress of both The Batman Part II and Clayface suggests a strong confidence in their creative teams and production timelines, which is a key necessity in the competitive superhero landscape.
Elseworlds vs. DCU: Two Different Dark Knights
It’s crucial for fans to keep track of where these two films sit within the new DC Studios structure.
- The Batman Part II (Elseworlds): This is the direct sequel to Matt Reeves’ critically acclaimed 2022 film starring Robert Pattinson. It exists within the separate, self-contained Elseworlds universe, which is distinctly outside of the main DCU continuity. Gunn’s involvement here is primarily one of support, ensuring the creative vision of the team remains intact and the film gets everything it needs to succeed. The surrounding hype has only intensified following the critical and audience success of the Elseworlds spinoff series The Penguin on HBO Max.
- Clayface (DCU): This project will be a part of Gunn’s interconnected DCU canon when the horror-fueled feature hits theaters next year. Its placement in the DCU means this version of the monstrous villain will likely interact with the characters introduced in Gunn’s main continuity, including the forthcoming DCU Batman.
The R-Rated, Horror-Fueled Future
The most compelling detail about the Clayface film is its commitment to pushing boundaries, specifically into R-rated horror territory. Max Minghella, a co-star in the film, recently spoke highly of the script, confirming its intense nature.
“I think I can safely say it’s going there. It’s a proper movie. It’s a really fantastic script,” Minghella commented, suggesting the film will deliver a visceral experience that matches the villain’s unsettling body-horror origins. This approach aligns with Gunn’s stated desire to explore a wider range of genres within the DCU, stepping beyond standard superhero action.
As James Gunn continues his massive undertaking to redefine DC Studios and truly challenge the dominance of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the timely progress and unique approaches of The Batman Part II and Clayface represent two exciting, but very different, pillars of his burgeoning superhero empire.
