The darkly comic horror A Hand to Hold has been officially selected for the 41st Santa Barbara International Film Festival, where it will screen three times from February 7–9, 2026, before making its European premiere at FrightFest Glasgow on March 7.
Directed by Philip Clyde-Smith and written by Eliza Power, A Hand to Hold stars Frances Barber (Inside No.9, Mr. Holmes) and Murray McArthur (Game of Thrones, How to Train Your Dragon) in a grotesque, pitch-black horror comedy about grief, codependency, and a marriage that refuses to let go – literally.
Barber plays an elderly woman who finds herself physically attached to her deceased husband after his hand refuses to release its grip in death. As increasingly extreme attempts are made to separate them, the situation spirals into escalating and often absurdly horrific consequences, drawing in everyone from a doctor and priest to a farmer and even a Satanist.
Produced by Greg Mills, with Georgia Mills serving as line producer, the film features a strong ensemble cast including Shane Casey (The Young Offenders), Frank Bourke (His Dark Materials), Lisa O’Connor (Call the Midwife), Katherine Moran (Slow Horses), and a special cameo by comedy legend Jimmy Tarbuck. Casting was led by Tree Petts, with special effects and make-up design by Eve Pashley, a Pinewood Studios alum.
A Hand to Hold blends visceral body horror with dark Irish humour, exploring themes of grief, intimacy, and toxic relationships. The screenplay has already received significant industry recognition, earning nominations and awards at over 20 festivals, including Festigious Los Angeles, Kerry Film Festival, Killer Shorts, Waterford Film Festival, and The Golden Script Competition.
Principal photography took place in London in May 2025. The creative team is currently developing a feature-length adaptation, slated for production in 2027.
Director Philip Clyde-Smith says:
“I was looking for a project that could work as a proof of concept both artistically and commercially. When I read Eliza’s script, I knew instantly this was it; slightly mad, deeply dark, and full of possibility.”
Writer Eliza Power adds:
“We wanted to create a horror that’s intimate and inescapable; where the monster isn’t chasing you, it’s part of you. Nothing can separate this couple. Not death. Not even a chainsaw.”
Screening times:
41st Santa Barbara International Film Festival
- Saturday February 7th, SBIFF Film Center at 5.20pm
- Sunday February 8th, SBIFF Riviera Theater, at 12pm
- Monday February 9th, SBIFF Film Center at 9am
