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Geeta Gandbhir’s ‘The Perfect Neighbor’ to stream on Netflix
Based on real-life events, the documentary film is set to release later this year.
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Official Poster / Netflix
Indian American filmmaker Geeta Gandbhir’s latest documentary, The Perfect Neighbor, is set to premiere on Netflix later this year.
The film examines the fatal consequences of Florida’s “stand your ground” laws through the case of Ajike Owens, a Black mother who was fatally shot by her neighbor in 2023.
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Utilizing police body camera footage and investigative interviews, the documentary explores the neighborhood dispute that escalated into deadly violence, highlighting the complexities and repercussions of the self-defense statute.
The Perfect Neighbor had its world premiere at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival on Jan. 24, where Gandbhir won the Directing Award in the U.S. Documentary category. The film has also been selected for screenings at the South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival, CPH:DOX, and the Miami Film Festival.
In a statement, Gandbhir emphasized the personal significance of the project, stating that it was “created to transform grief into purpose and honor the lasting legacy of Ajike Owens and her family.” She added, “My team and I are thrilled the film will be available on Netflix, offering audiences worldwide the chance to experience this urgent and powerful story.”
The documentary has received critical acclaim, currently holding a 100 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have praised its compelling narrative and its insightful examination of the legal and social implications of “stand your ground” laws.
Gandbhir, an Emmy and Peabody Award-winning director and editor, has built a career highlighting social justice issues, particularly those affecting marginalized communities. Her previous works include Lowndes County and the Road to Black Power and Black and Missing.
Born to Indian immigrant parents, Gandbhir has been a strong advocate for documentary filmmaking as a tool for social change. Over her career, she has collaborated with leading figures in journalism and film, including Soledad O’Brien and Sam Pollard, who serve as executive producers on this project.
While Netflix has acquired worldwide rights to The Perfect Neighbor, a specific release date has yet to be announced.
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