THE PERFECT NEIGHBOUR: HOW “STAND YOUR GROUND” LAWS FAIL THE VULNERABLE

Megan Grobler

@megan.gro_bler

 

The Netflix true-crime documentary The Perfect Neighbour, directed by Geeta Gandbhir and produced by Gandbhir, Alisa Payne, Nikon Kwantu, and Sam Bisbee, premiered on October 17, 2025. Since its release, the film has taken the streaming world by storm, claiming the number one spot on Netflix’s Global Top 10 and topping charts in countries including Australia, the Netherlands, and South Korea.

 

The Perfect Neighbour explores the unsettling realities and repercussions of “stand your ground” laws in the United States. The documentary depicts a devastating case from a quiet Florida community that was torn apart by relentless harassment, building tension, and, ultimately, tragedy.

 

Using raw police bodycam footage, interrogation room recordings, and first-hand accounts, the film immerses viewers in the unravelling of this community. What started as a recurring neighbourly dispute spiralled into the fatal shooting of Ajike Owens, a devoted mother of four and beloved community member.

 

By examining the events that led up to Owens’ death, The Perfect Neighbour pushes audiences to question: when self-defence laws are stretched to their limits, who is truly protected, and who ultimately pays the price?

 

According to Tudum’s article, “The Perfect Neighbour Uses Revolutionary Camerawork to Expose a Chilling Crime,” Gandbhir said, “The Perfect Neighbour is a deeply personal project, created to transform grief into purpose and honour the lasting legacy of Ajike Owens and her family.”

 

Beyond its gripping storytelling, the documentary highlights how “stand your ground” laws have often been applied inconsistently, sometimes reinforcing racial bias and inequality within the justice system. Gandbhir’s film encourages viewers to question not only the letter of these laws but also their moral implications.

 

Ultimately, The Perfect Neighbour is a powerful reminder that justice should protect the vulnerable, not justify unnecessary violence, and it urges reform to prevent such tragedies in the future.

 

 

Edited by Simoné de Witt