The film recounts the Texarkana Moonlight Murders and the subsequent investigation that occurred from late February to early May of 1946; however, names were changed and certain details modified for dramatic effect. Ben Johnson portrays a well-known Texas Ranger assigned to the case, while Andrew Prine takes on the role of a strong deputy sheriff. Dawn Wells makes an appearance toward the film’s conclusion. “The Town that Dreaded Sundown” (1976) can be considered an early slasher movie, despite being rooted in actual events and categorized as a crime docudrama. The killer's sack headwear served as the basis for the mask worn by Jason in “Friday 13th: Part 2” (1981). Alongside films such as “The Legend of Boggy Creek” (1972) and “Grayeagle” (1977), this represents one of B-film director Charles B. Pierce’s more significant works, with Pierce himself appearing in a small role as the inept Patrolman Benson. There are some odd attempts at humor that feel out of place given the seriousness of what's happening; it brings to mind the clumsy police officers featured in the original “The Last House on the Left” (1972). I appreciated the 1946 setting, complete with vintage automobiles, and the fact that this story is based on something that really happened, which makes you want to look into the actual events. Just don’t anticipate anything approaching the quality of “Bonnie and Clyde” (1967). Considering the production cost was $400,000, it's remarkable. The movie has a running time of 1 hour, 30 minutes and filming took place in Texarkana on the Texas/Arkansas border, as well as The Jack Williams Ranch in Garland City, Arkansas, with the train scenes filmed in Scott, Arkansas. GRADE: B-/C+

Source on TMDB