Netflix has launched "The Perfect Neighbor," a compelling new crime documentary that has quickly become a significant entry in the genre, even garnering attention for potential Academy Award qualification. The film, which Watch With Us has praised as one of the year’s best, offers a stark look into a tragic real-life event through an innovative cinematic approach.
The documentary recounts the shocking events that culminated in the murder of Ajike Owens by her neighbor, Susan Lorincz. Unfolding entirely through police body camera footage, the film presents a raw and unfiltered narrative of the escalating tensions that led to the fatal shooting. This unique style immerses viewers directly into the community’s experience, allowing the facts to speak for themselves without the aid of traditional narration or interviews.
The tragic incident occurred on June 2, 2023, in Ocala, Florida. Susan Lorincz, 58, shot and killed Owens following an altercation between Lorincz and Owens’ children. Owens subsequently went to Lorincz’s door, where Lorincz fired a single shot through it, striking Owens while her 10-year-old son stood nearby. Lorincz was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in 2024 and sentenced to 25 years in prison, with her "Stand Your Ground" defense ultimately rejected as unjustified.
This murder captured national attention, intensifying scrutiny on Florida’s controversial "Stand Your Ground" laws. These regulations permit the use of deadly force when an individual feels threatened, but critics argue they are easily susceptible to abuse and misapplication, especially in situations where no actual threat exists. The film powerfully illustrates how such laws can be exploited and lead to preventable tragedies.
Beyond the legal debate, "The Perfect Neighbor" exposes a deeply troubling current of racial prejudice. Lorincz, an older white woman residing in a diverse neighborhood, is depicted as allegedly leveraging her racial status to escape accountability. She reportedly called the police multiple times a day with complaints about neighborhood children, who were predominantly Black and young. Despite these frequent and reportedly unfounded complaints, she faced no repercussions, painting a picture of systemic bias.
Director Geeta Gandbhir deliberately chose to forgo narration, allowing the sheer objectivity of the body camera footage to convey the story’s gravity. Speaking to the Los Angeles Times, Gandbhir emphasized that the footage’s raw nature creates an immersive experience, enabling audiences to understand the community’s perspective. The film not only documents the tragedy but also captures the vibrant life of the community prior to the devastating incident, preserving the memory of the joy that once existed.
Ultimately, "The Perfect Neighbor" is a vital and impactful viewing experience. It serves as a potent indictment of "Stand Your Ground" laws and starkly illuminates systemic biases within the American legal system. The documentary underscores how race can be weaponized against others and how the carceral state may overlook threats driven by ingrained racial prejudice. While the film may evoke frustration over an avoidable death, its unflinching portrayal of injustice aims to contribute to meaningful change.
"The Perfect Neighbor" is now available for streaming on Netflix.