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

This is a perfect little movie in its way, succeeding as a voyeuristic experience from start to finish with just the right balance of banality, surprise, horror, disgust and curiosity-arousal & satisfaction. Like watching the seamier part of life through a perpetual keyhole. The art is in the actors & director never giving the appearance of "artfulness". Bravo!!!

CONFESSIONS OF A SERIAL KILLER (1985) is an effective but extremely gruelling and realistic low budget serial killer drama, based on the true-life story of Henry Lee Lucas whose crimes inspired the better-known HENRY: PORTRAIT OF A SERIAL KILLER with Michael Rooker. That's also the better film, although this has plenty of merit for those who enjoy this dark, graphic genre. Robert Burns stars as Daniel Ray Hawkins, a bisexual butcher who murders his way through a string of innocent young women in rural Texas with the aid of a couple of similarly deranged companions.

I'd never heard of this particular film before watching it - uncut - on Amazon Prime. It's quite the experience, extremely nihilistic in its depiction of rape and murder, sometimes occuring at the same time. The performances are nothing to write home about, but the direction is unflinching and the content extremely gruelling. To be classed alongside the likes of MANIAC and SNOWTOWN, a film you need to follow with a cold shower to get out of your system.