Isabella Thornton
Here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 Netflix documentary The Perfect Neighbor — from its powerful true story and global premiere date to full streaming details and the complete cast lineup. This guide also explains how you can watch The Perfect Neighbor online from anywhere in the world, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and over 190 countries where Netflix is available, ensuring you never miss this compelling and critically acclaimed documentary.
The Perfect Neighbor (2025) Synopsis
The Perfect Neighbor tells the true story of Ajike “AJ” Owens, a young Black mother who was fatally shot by her neighbor Susan Lorincz after a long-standing conflict in their Florida neighborhood. Told through police bodycam footage, archival clips, and firsthand interviews, the documentary reconstructs the tense events that led to the shooting. Directed by Geeta Gandbhir, it exposes the failings of the Stand Your Ground law and the biases ingrained within the justice system. The film also explores how Owens’ family turned their pain into activism, demanding accountability and reform. With precise editing and a haunting score, it becomes a deeply personal story about grief, courage, and the ongoing fight against racial prejudice in America.
When does The Perfect Neighbor premiere?
The Perfect Neighbor premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival on January 24, 2025, where it won the Directing Award: U.S. Documentary. It went on to screen at major festivals including SXSW, CPH:DOX, Miami Film Festival, and Sheffield DocFest, earning multiple honors along the way. After a limited theatrical release on October 10, 2025, it became available for global streaming on Netflix starting October 17, 2025.
The Perfect Neighbor Cast
- Geeta Gandbhir – Director and producer, known for transforming personal grief into a powerful call for justice.
- Soledad O’Brien – Executive producer who ensures the film’s message resonates globally with clarity and empathy.
- Alisa Payne – Producer representing Message Pictures, contributing to the film’s strong storytelling foundation.
- Nikon Kwantu – Producer and cinematographer whose early documentation of the case shaped the film’s realism.
- Sam Bisbee – Producer from Park Pictures, helping craft the film’s visual and emotional tone.
- Viridiana Lieberman – Editor responsible for weaving together raw footage and emotional narratives.
- Laura Heinzinger – Composer of the haunting musical score that amplifies the emotional intensity.
- Ajike “AJ” Owens – The heart of the story, whose life and legacy drive the film’s emotional and moral message.
- Susan Lorincz – The shooter, whose actions and legal defense ignite a national discussion about race, fear, and justice.
What real event is behind this documentary?
The film is based on the tragic killing of Ajike “AJ” Owens, who was fatally shot by her neighbor Susan Lorincz in Ocala, Florida in June 2023. The story is told largely through police bodycam footage, 911 calls, and archival materials.
Are there any awards or nominations for this documentary?
Yes. The Perfect Neighbor won the Directing Award: U.S. Documentary at Sundance. It also received multiple nominations at the Critics Choice Documentary Awards.
Where to watch The Perfect Neighbor Documentary
As of October 17, 2025, you can watch The Perfect Neighbor exclusively on Netflix in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and several other countries where the platform holds global streaming rights. The powerful true-crime documentary is available to stream in HD and 4K quality, depending on your Netflix plan. Viewers can access it through the Netflix app or website.
Is there a way to watch The Perfect Neighbor online for free?
No, The Perfect Neighbor is a Netflix original documentary and isn’t available to watch for free. To stream the film, you’ll need an active Netflix subscription, which can be either the Basic, Standard with Ads, or Premium plan.
Can I Download The Perfect Neighbor for Offline Viewing?
Yes, The Perfect Neighbor can be downloaded for offline viewing on supported mobile phones and tablets using the official Netflix app. This feature allows you to watch the documentary anytime, even without an internet connection. Simply open the Netflix app, tap the download icon next to the title, and enjoy The Perfect Neighbor offline wherever you are.
Devices You Can Use to Watch Netflix:
| Device Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Smart TVs | Samsung, LG, Sony Bravia, Hisense, TCL |
| Streaming Devices | Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Google Chromecast |
| Gaming Consoles | PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch |
| Mobile Devices | iPhone, iPad, Android smartphones, Android tablets |
| Computers & Laptops | Windows PC, Mac, Chromebooks via Chrome, Safari, Edge |
| Set-Top Boxes | Sky Q, Virgin Media, Airtel Xstream, Nvidia Shield |
The Perfect Neighbor Trailer
FAQs
- Is The Perfect Neighbor based on a true story?
Yes, it’s based on the tragic real-life case of Ajike “AJ” Owens, who was shot and killed by her neighbor in Florida. The film uses actual bodycam footage to portray the truth behind the incident. - Who directed The Perfect Neighbor?
Emmy-winning filmmaker Geeta Gandbhir directs The Perfect Neighbor, bringing her signature blend of socially conscious storytelling and emotionally charged documentary style to the screen. - What legal outcome followed the shooting?
Susan Lorincz was later convicted of manslaughter by firearm and sentenced to 25 years in prison. The film highlights how the Stand Your Ground law played a controversial role in her defense and public discourse around the case. - How long is The Perfect Neighbor?
The runtime is 97 minutes. Despite being feature-length, its pacing and structure feel cinematic and immediate because of the visceral footage structure.
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