The Perfect Neighbor is your next “chilling” and “unforgettable” Netflix true-crime watch

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Netflix is releasing a new true crime documentary called *The Perfect Neighbor* next month. It tells the story of Ajike Owens, a Black woman who was fatally shot by her white neighbor, Susan Lorincz, in Florida. The neighbor allegedly fired a gun through Owens’ front door. A trailer for the documentary has just been released, offering a glimpse into this disturbing case.

This happened during a continuing disagreement between neighbors about kids playing outside. Police had been called to resolve the conflict at least six times before.

The incident sparked a discussion about Florida’s ‘stand your ground’ laws. These laws, originally passed 20 years ago, give people the right to use deadly force if they reasonably fear for their life while at home.

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Because of a legal technicality, Lorincz wasn’t charged right away, but she was arrested five days after the shooting, according to BBC News. Last year, she was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 25 years in prison.

The documentary *The Perfect Neighbor* utilizes actual bodycam recordings to examine the case, and the trailer highlights its unique, first-person perspective.

Director Geeta Gandbhir explained to Deadline that they found a way to use body camera footage in a completely different way. Normally, this footage is used for surveillance or to support police actions, but they wanted to turn it around and use it to highlight the strength and character of the community before a tragic event occurred.

Executive producer Sam Pollard described the film’s approach as incredibly immersive, suggesting it will push filmmakers to rethink how they handle similar subjects. He believes this quality is what truly sets it apart and makes it special.

The movie follows a close community tormented by a hostile neighbor, whose actions ultimately lead to a deadly incident. It also highlights the consequences of controversial laws that are surprisingly common.

Gandbhir, a close friend of Owens’s sister-in-law, told Netflix that making the project was very meaningful to her. She explained it was a way to cope with loss, find meaning, and celebrate the life and family of Ajike Owens.

Gandbhir received the US Documentary Directing Award at the Sundance Film Festival for her film, which has been highly praised and currently holds a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Both *TheWrap* and *IndieWire* praised the documentary, with *TheWrap* calling it “chilling” and *IndieWire* calling it “unforgettable.” *IndieWire* explained that the film powerfully illustrates the dangers of stand-your-ground laws by focusing on one specific case.

Variety praised the film as both creatively groundbreaking and intellectually stimulating. They compared its suspenseful style to a blend of *Paranormal Activity* and *End of Watch*, noting that it presents evidence and allows viewers to form their own interpretations.

According to *The Hollywood Reporter*, the film is a fast-paced and disturbing portrayal of racism, ineffective policing, and the repercussions of America’s laws regarding self-defense.

The Perfect Neighbor will stream on Netflix from 17 October.

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2025-09-24 18:50