Horror Hangout Podcast Bonus Episode : Interview with A Hand To Hold Director Philip Clyde-Smith & Writer Eliza Power

In this special bonus episode of The Horror Hangout, host Andy Conduit Turner interviews directors and writers Eliza Power and Philip Clyde-Smith about their award-winning horror short film 'A Hand to Hold,' which premiered at Fright Fest Glasgow. The film, set in rural Ireland, explores the emotional and psychological toll of caregiving through a supernatural twist: an elderly man remains physically attached to his wife after death, symbolizing the inescapable burden of long-term care. The creators discuss how their personal experiences with aging family members informed the film’s themes of love, resentment, and emotional toxicity. They reflect on the challenges and creative triumphs of independent filmmaking, including low-budget practical effects, unexpected on-set accidents that enhanced the film, and the deep camaraderie among the cast and crew. The conversation also delves into the broader horror landscape, praising the authenticity of practical effects and human imperfection over AI-generated content, while advocating for more emotionally grounded, character-driven horror. The duo reveals plans to expand the short into a feature film, with a strong emphasis on preserving the story’s emotional core and indie spirit. The episode concludes with a heartfelt tribute to their producer Greg and team, and a playful yet insightful final segment where the filmmakers share their go-to horror movie picks for mixed audiences. Phil Clyde-Smith opts for the psychologically rich 'The Babadook,' while Eliza Power chooses the fun, nostalgic 'Fright Night' (1985), highlighting the importance of tradition and shared experience in horror. The episode underscores the power of horror as a genre to explore deeply human truths, especially around relationships, grief, and the hidden costs of love and duty.