Dave Bautista has expressed interest in playing Clayface as part of the DC Extended Universe. Despite the fact that the actor is known for his portrayal of the strangely hilarious Drax in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, he’s endorsed the idea of shifting into one of one of DC Comics’ most long-running villains.
First appearing in DC Comics as far back as 1940, the moniker of Clayface would be assumed by a number of characters throughout the years. Most notably among them was Matt Hagen. Created by writer Bill Finger and artist Sheldon Moldoff, Hagen made his debut in 1961. Hagen was depicted as a treasure hunter that stumbled upon a radioactive pool of protoplasm in a cave. By accident, Hagen is changed into a form which resembles clay and he gains the ability to transform into anything he desires. Using his newly-attained powers for crime, Hagen soon finds himself encountering Batman and Robin. At a disadvantage, with his malleability lasting only a short while before it needs to be reinvigorated, Hagen was routinely defeated though he would find ways to reemerge as a throne in the side of superheroes. Hagen was ultimately killed and other characters, created by other writers and artists, would come to be known as Clayface. But it’s Hagen’s version which gained the endorsement of Bautista.
Replying to a tweet from B.J Mendelson, in which the comic book writer proposed the idea of a Matt Hagen movie starring the former WWE superstar, Bautista replied with unequivocal support. Hagen has appeared in other media outside of comics in the past. However, outside of a very brief cameo, his appearances have mostly been in the form of animation.
Surprisingly known for his muted charisma during the majority of his time in professional wrestling, Bautista’s acting career has included a diverse set of roles. He’s appeared in a Bond film. He’s shown a knack for buddy comedies like Stuber. And among his most recognized roles, next to Drax, he had a well-received supporting turn in the sequel to Blade Runner. Working with Zack Snyder next for Army of the Dead, as well as the upcoming My Spy and Traphouse, Bautista has a pretty full state.
He’d probably free his schedule up to be the lead in a DCEU movie. Comic book adaptions have gone from being a box office uncertainty to a dominant form of entertainment, breaking records and bolstering the streaming wars. Even though Bautista already has made his mark in the genre, easily stealing scenes as Drax, it would be a whole different level of accomplishment with fans and critics to successfully headline a standalone film.
Source: Dave Bautista
