Review of The Town That Dreaded Sundown (1976) by Steve S — 27 Jan 2011

This is quite a strange film, and one that I've wanted to see for probably about a decade now, as it was one of the biggest inspirations for "Friday the 13th Part 2," which is one of my favorite slasher films.

The way this movie is framed is quite odd, as it is presented almost like a documentary/Unsolved Mysteries episode, with a narrator popping in on occasion, filled in by large bits of drama as well as a few very out of place comedic relief scenes.

I think if the film would have focused more on the suspense and horror scenes, it could've been one of the most effective in the business, but it chose to confuse itself with faux-documentary style and bits that take the mood away from the film.

Overall, an interesting watch, but falls short of being what it could've been.