Midwest Premiere
Showings
Festival tickets go on sale March 18, with visionaries and members receiving early access for ticket purchase.
About This Film
Festival Year: 2026
Run Time: 15 Minutes
Film Type: Short
Animated: No
Genre: Comedy, Horror/Thriller
Countr(ies): United Kingdom
Language: English
English Subtitles: No
Captions: Closed
Release Year: 2025
Film Overview
Moira, an elderly Irish woman, finds herself literally attached to her deceased husband Patrick. When his hand refuses to let go after death, it leads to increasingly grotesque events. Everyone in the couple’s orbit, from their daughter to the local doctor, a farmer, a priest, and a Satanist, all try to intervene with horrific consequences. ‘A Hand to Hold’ blends horror with pitch-black Irish comedy, exploring themes of grief and toxic relationships. The film features an original score by Golden Globe nominated composer Brian Byrne.
Film Contact: Philip Clyde-smith
Film Website: https://philipclydesmith.wixsite.com/a-hand-to-hold
Film Email: handtoholdfilm@gmail.com
Cast & Crew
Directed By
Philip Clyde-Smith
Produced By
Greg Mills
Screenwriting
Eliza Power
Cinematographers
Deane Thrussell
Editors
Philip Clyde-smith
Principal Cast
Frances Barber, Murray McArthur, Shane Casey, Frank Bourke, Lisa O'Connor, Katherine Moran, Jimmy Tarbuck