The Girl in the Lay-by

A lonely, middle-aged woman who works as a cleaner in a seaside town becomes obsessed with a young man she sees regularly at a local lay-by. Her fixation leads her down a path of increasingly disturbing behavior as she attempts to make contact and draw him into her isolated world. The film explores themes of loneliness, obsession, and the dark side of desire in a bleak coastal setting.

The film received mixed to positive reviews, with many critics praising Imelda Staunton's central performance for its depth and unsettling portrayal of a troubled character. While some found the pacing slow or the subject matter bleak, others appreciated its atmospheric tension and raw emotional honesty. It was noted for its uncomfortable exploration of a socially marginalized individual's psyche.

• Imelda Staunton delivers a powerful and chilling performance.

• The film effectively captures a sense of unease and isolation.

• Praised for its atmospheric and unsettling tone, though some found it overly bleak.

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The film was shot on location in and around Fleetwood, Lancashire, a seaside town known for its industrial heritage and often bleak atmosphere, which greatly contributed to the film's mood.