The documentary ‘Perfect Neighbor’ has been nominated for Best Documentary at the 98th annual Academy Awards, with the announcement made on March 15, 2026. This film details the tragic shooting of Ajike ‘AJ’ Owens by her neighbor, Susan Lorincz, which occurred on June 2, 2023, following a long-standing feud between the two women.
Ajike ‘AJ’ Owens, a 35-year-old mother of four, was shot by Lorincz through a locked front door using a .380-caliber handgun. The incident was the culmination of a documented conflict, with law enforcement responding to over ten incidents between the neighbors since January 2021.
Susan Lorincz, who was 58 years old at the time of the shooting, was convicted of manslaughter with a firearm in August 2024. She is currently serving a 25-year prison sentence at the Homestead Correctional Institution in Miami-Dade County, Florida. Her projected release date is April 8, 2048.
The documentary showcases a timeline of the neighbors’ feud through interviews, 911 calls, and deputy bodycam footage, providing a comprehensive look at the events leading up to the shooting. It also examines Florida’s controversial ‘Stand Your Ground’ laws, which have been the subject of much debate.
Netflix describes the documentary as being about “fear, prejudice and Stand Your Ground laws,” highlighting the broader implications of the case. Family members of Ajike Owens have expressed their grief, stating that she “affected all she came into contact with her infectious personality, who had a smile that would light up the room.”
In a chilling remark, Lorincz reportedly asked, “Is there anything I can do with these people?” reflecting her perspective on the ongoing disputes. Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods commented on the situation, stating, “The laws here in the state of Florida are clear. I may not like them. I may not agree with them, but however those laws I will follow.”
The documentary was previously recognized as No. 1 on Netflix’s Top 10 Movies in the U.S. in October 2025, drawing significant attention to the case and its surrounding issues. As the film continues to gain traction, it raises important questions about neighborhood conflicts and the legal frameworks that govern them.
