Watching Grief Unfold: The Ethical Dilemma of True Crime Documentaries
In 2025, a Netflix documentary titled "The Perfect Neighbor" brought to light a tragic event that shook the nation. The film focuses on the shooting of Ajike Owens, a Black mother of four, by her neighbor Susan Louise Lorincz in Ocala, Florida. The incident, which occurred in 2023, was fueled by racial bias and the controversial stand-your-ground law. The documentary uses doorcam and bodycam footage to tell the story, including the harrowing moments following the shooting, where Owens' nine-year-old son, Israel, witnesses his mother's fatal injury and subsequent death.
A Raw and Unfiltered Portrayal
The film does not sensationalize the tragedy but presents it in a raw and unfiltered manner. This approach raises important questions about the ethical implications of consuming such content as entertainment. While the documentary received critical acclaim, it also left viewers with a sense of unease and discomfort. Watching a child's life unravel in real-time is a powerful experience, and it challenges us to reflect on our role as consumers of true crime media.
Support from the Family
"The Perfect Neighbor" was made with the support of Owens' mother, Pamela Dias, who believed that the film was necessary to bring attention to her daughter's story. However, the documentary's existence also prompts us to consider the potential consequences of turning real-life tragedies into entertainment. As true crime content continues to dominate streaming platforms, it is crucial to question the impact it has on both the subjects of these stories and the audiences who consume them.
Shifting Public Opinion
The documentary's release in 2025 came at a time when public opinion on true crime media was shifting. A 2024 YouGov poll revealed a decline in the belief that true crime media increases empathy for victims and improves understanding of the criminal justice system. This shift in perspective highlights a growing awareness of the ethical concerns surrounding the genre.
A Catalyst for Discussion
"The Perfect Neighbor" stands out from other true crime documentaries due to its unflinching portrayal of grief and trauma. Unlike shows that exploit their subjects for entertainment value, this film does not shy away from the harsh realities of its story. However, this honesty also raises questions about the responsibility of filmmakers and the ethical boundaries of documentary filmmaking.
As true crime content continues to be a popular form of entertainment, it is essential to engage in critical discussions about its impact. "The Perfect Neighbor" serves as a catalyst for these conversations, challenging viewers to reflect on the ethical implications of consuming real-life tragedies as entertainment.
