Shocking: The Perfect Neighbor

Netflix Acquires Sundance Award-Winning Doc ‘The Perfect Neighbor’

The Sundance Film Festival’s U.S. Documentary competition director’s prize for “The Perfect Neighbor,” a documentary directed by Geeta Gandbhir, has found its way to Netflix. The film is a profound exploration of a tragic event that occurred in 2023 in Central Florida, where Susan Lorincz, a white woman, killed her Black neighbor, Ajike “AJ” Owens, by firing a gun through her locked door. Lorincz’s actions, defended under Florida’s “stand your ground” laws, have sparked a wide range of discussions on racism, community dynamics, and legal implications. The film utilizes an innovative storytelling approach, leveraging police bodycam and dashcam footage, which has been a focal point of criticism and surveillance in the past, to emphasize the community’s perspective and the broader implications of the incident.

Produced by Alisa Payne, Geeta Gandbhir, and Nikon Kwantu for Message Pictures

Message Pictures, a production company renowned for its impactful documentaries, is behind the production of “The Perfect Neighbor.” The film is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Alisa Payne, Geeta Gandbhir, and Nikon Kwantu, who have worked diligently to bring this story to the forefront. Alongside them, Sam Bisbee from Park Pictures has also co-produced the project. The executive producer lineup includes Sam Pollard for Message Pictures, Soledad O’Brien, and Rose Arce for SO’B Productions, along with Jackie Kelman Bisbee and Wendy Neu from Park Pictures. The collective effort has ensured that the documentary is both meticulously crafted and deeply resonant with its audience.

Creative Approach

Police Bodycam and Dashcam Footage

Geeta Gandbhir’s approach to storytelling in “The Perfect Neighbor” is a masterclass in documentary filmmaking. The film uses police bodycam and dashcam footage, traditionally seen as tools for surveillance and police defense, to shed light on the community’s perspective. Gandbhir and her team obtained this footage through Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, a process that underscores the documentary’s commitment to transparency and the truth. This innovative approach not only challenges the traditional use of police footage but also humanizes the community affected by the tragic event.

Editing and Music

The documentary’s powerful narrative is further enhanced by Viridiana Lieberman’s impeccable editing and Laura Heinzinger’s evocative music. Lieberman’s work with the bodycam footage allows the film to seamlessly transition between moments of tension and reflection, providing a cohesive and emotionally charged experience. Heinzinger’s musical score complements the visual storytelling, evoking the deep emotions and the complex layers of the narrative.

Personal Connections and Emotional Weight

Director’s Personal Connection

Geeta Gandbhir’s personal connection to the story infuses the documentary with an emotional depth and authenticity that resonates with viewers. Gandbhir’s family ties to the incident, as Ajike “AJ” Owens was the best friend of her sister-in-law, Kimberly Robinson Jones, and Takema Robinson, who is also an executive producer, bring a personal touch to the film. Gandbhir’s work aims to transform grief into purpose, aiming to honor and remember Owens and her family in a manner that respects their legacy and brings to light the systemic issues that contributed to the tragedy.

Family Perspective

Pamela Dias, Owens’ mother, shared the profound impact of the story on her family during an interview at the Sundance Film Festival. Dias highlighted the multifaceted aspects of the tragedy, emphasizing that Owens was an everyday mom and that the incident could have happened to any family in a similar community. The documentary’s aim to spark conversations about community dynamics, racism, and legal protocols is a testament to the broader implications of the story. Dias’ participation and perspective underscore the personal and societal layers of the tragedy, making the documentary a poignant and compelling watch.

Implications and Future Prospects

Oscar Potential

“The Perfect Neighbor” is set to be a strong contender for the Oscars, given its Sundance accolades and the quality of storytelling. The film’s narrative, which delves into the complexities of community relations and systemic issues, has the potential to resonate with critics and audiences alike. Moreover, the documentary’s exploration of the misuse of self-defense laws and the impact of racial tensions on community dynamics adds a layer of social commentary that could elevate it to award-winning status. The film’s acquisition by Netflix further amplifies its reach and impact, positioning it as a significant piece of contemporary documentary filmmaking.

Public and Critical Reception

With Netflix as its distributor, “The Perfect Neighbor” is poised to reach a global audience, sparking conversations on a larger scale. The documentary’s critical acclaim at Sundance suggests a promising reception from both critics and the public. The film’s ability to challenge viewers’ perceptions of community, race, and justice is likely to provoke thoughtful discussions and potentially influence future documentary filmmaking. Given the film’s resonance and the issues it addresses, it has the potential to become a landmark piece of documentary cinema, addressing pressing societal issues in a compelling and accessible manner.

Practical Aspects of the Deal

Cinetic’s Role

The deal was brokered by Cinetic, a film sales and financing company known for its expertise in acquiring and distributing impactful documentaries. Cinetic’s involvement highlights the strategic importance of distribution partners in bringing films like “The Perfect Neighbor” to a wider audience. The company’s role in negotiating the acquisition with Netflix underscores its significance in the film industry, particularly in the documentary space, where distribution can be a critical factor in a film’s success.

Production Process

The production of “The Perfect Neighbor” involved a meticulous process that included securing police bodycam and dashcam footage through Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. This process, while challenging, was crucial in providing the documentary with a comprehensive and authentic narrative. Gandbhir and her team’s innovative use of archival footage alongside the obtained bodycam footage has set a new standard for documentary filmmaking. The film’s approach challenges the traditional narrative often presented by law enforcement and provides a unique perspective that brings the community’s voice to the forefront.