In writer/director Justin Lombardi's dramatic short Confession, Burke Brown is Gabriel Blake, a youth conversion therapy instructor on the cusp of understanding his own sexuality and coming face-to-face with the hypocrisy of his own beliefs and the damage that he has done to others who are just like him. 

Confession is Lombardi's senior thesis short film at Ringling College of Art and Design. It's an emotionally powerful and honest film fueled by Brown's aching performance as Gabriel and supported by a heartbreaking turn from Greg Lloyd as Jared Crenshaw. Lombardi accomplishes quite a bit within the confines of a short film and Confession is a film that may seem somewhat familiar, however, it tells its story well and holds your attention from beginning to end. 

Lensing by Ben Sutherland amplifies the film's inherent tension as it sets us down amidst the growing conflict and demands that we pay attention. There's an uncomfortable intimacy that develops throughout the film, from from isolated scenes with Gabriel to volatile scenes that develop between Gabriel and Jared and also a particularly powerful scene involving Gabriel and Jared's father. 

Confession has a small but effective ensemble that wrings every dramatic nuance out of Lombardi's dialogue. The film's impact is aided by Ana Brighton's mood-setting production design and a vulnerability that hangs over the film. 

With Lombardi's insightful and intuitive dialogue and a strong ensemble, Confession is a film to watch for should Lombardi opt for an indie fest circuit run. 

Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic