Image: Netflix Press
By Jon Donnis
Netflix has secured the rights to The Perfect Neighbor, a powerful new documentary from Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Geeta Gandbhir. Set for release in 2025, the film delves into a tragic neighbourhood dispute in Florida that escalates into deadly violence, exploring the wider implications of the state's controversial "stand your ground" laws.
Produced by Message Pictures in association with SO'B Productions and Park Pictures, the documentary uses police bodycam footage and candid investigative interviews to piece together the events that shattered a community. The project is deeply personal for Gandbhir, who aimed to turn heartbreak into action by highlighting the legacy of Ajike Owens and her family.
After premiering at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, where Gandbhir won the Directing Award for U.S. Documentary, the film went on to become an official selection at SXSW, CPH:DOX and the Miami Film Festival.
Gandbhir, alongside producers Alisa Payne, Nikon Kwantu and Sam Bisbee, worked closely with executive producers Sam Pollard, Soledad O'Brien and Rose Arce to craft a documentary that doesn't just recount a tragedy but sparks essential conversations about race, justice and the impact of self-defence laws in America.
In a statement, Gandbhir said: "The Perfect Neighbor is a deeply personal project, created to transform grief into purpose and honour the lasting legacy of Ajike Owens and her family. My team at Message Pictures, along with our incredible partners at SO'B Productions and Park Pictures, are thrilled the film will be available on Netflix, offering audiences worldwide the chance to experience this urgent and powerful story."
With an expert team behind the scenes, including editor Viridiana Lieberman, The Perfect Neighbor promises to be a thought-provoking and emotionally charged film. Its arrival on Netflix ensures a global audience will have the chance to witness this vital story, one that sheds light on systemic issues while honouring the individuals affected by senseless violence.
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