I suppose it's near impossible to not compare this to 'Henry: portrait of a serial killer'. The biggest difference is that this one comes closer to being a biopic of sorts (even if Henry Lee Lucas is named Daniel Ray Hawkins here, and other such details), and also, Robert A. Burns shows more resemblance to the hick Lucas. Both films have a soundtrack leaning heavily on the synthesizer, though. 'Henry: portrait...' is of course way more intense and brutal, but that certainly doesn't mean 'Confessions...' doesn't have its moments. And overall, it stays closer to the reality of the Lucas case, although I'm not sure a poster of Wham! in one particular bedroom would be correct...?

Burns' performance is pretty good, and presents us with quite a different 'Lucas' than Michael Rooker did; more like a hick, a simple dullard, of whom you actually wouldn't expect this kind of murderous behaviour. The rest of the cast ranges from good to adequate to pretty bad.

A good 7 out of 10.

"Confessions of a Serial Killer" by Mark Blair is not as widely known as infamous "Henry:Portrait of a Serial Killer" and it's easy to see why.The film is not as disturbing and grimly effective as John McNaughton's true crime horror classic.It's also very loosely based on Henry Lee Lucas and Ottis Toole serial killing spree.Robert A. Burns(who worked on the original TCM)turns in a perfectly convincing performance as a serial killer.Some stalking scenes are mildly intense,unfortunately the ending is too abrupt and the lack of strong violence is hard to forgive.So if you want to see truly disturbing serial killer movie be sure to check out Austrian "Angst"(1983),which makes this one look like kindergarten stuff.7 out of 10.

This is a very strong entry in the serial killer genre. Robert A. Burns portrayal of Daniel Ray Hawkins (a very thinly veiled character based on the notorious serial killer, Henry Lee Lucas), is disturbingly low-key and realistic. The film itself has a gritty, dirty feel that also adds to the realism. The acts of violence are suitably brutal but lack any real gore, which really doesn't deter from the film at all. CONFESSIONS plays out more like a case study than a "horror" film. Those seeking blood and guts may want to look elsewhere, but if you are looking for a good psychological scare, this may be the one for you. Definitely not for the casual horror goer, this film may be disturbing to those who enjoy mainstream horror fare. Every bit as good as the more popular HENRY: PORTRAIT OF A SERIAL KILLER (also a great film). Highly recommended 8/10