SYNOPSIS

‘Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer’ is a film that follows the life of Henry, a man who travels from city to city committing murders. Inspired by true events, the film presents a raw and disturbing look into the mind of a serial killer, highlighting the emotionless nature of his actions. Henry forms a relationship with his roommate, Otis, and his roommate's sister, Becky. As their relationship develops, Henry's violent inclinations become increasingly evident, leading the story to a tragic end.

CINDIE SAYS:

The film’s origins are fascinating, especially for fans interested in the world of low-budget filmmaking. John McNaughton, a Chicago-based director with experience in television, was initially tasked with creating a cheap exploitation horror film. The producers, Maljack Productions, envisioned a slasher in the vein of Friday the 13th or Halloween — the kind of movie that could be shot quickly and make a profit at the box office. McNaughton, however, was more interested in exploring the psyche of a real-life killer, and after reading about Henry Lee Lucas, he decided to focus the film on a more realistic and horrifying figure.

Working with a modest budget of around $110,000, McNaughton crafted Henry with an unpolished, guerrilla-style approach. The film was shot on 16mm, which contributes to its grainy, documentary feel. This low-budget aesthetic enhances the film’s sense of immediacy and rawness, making the violence and depravity feel disturbingly real.