Reel Review Mom

I have to say, watching The Perfect Neighbor on Netflix gave me chills — and not just because it’s another expertly crafted true-crime docuseries. What makes this one hit differently is the fact that it takes place in Ocala, Florida — literally just about 30 minutes from where I live in Gainesville, FL. My grandparents actually lived in Ocala for years, so I know the area well: the quiet neighborhoods, the Southern charm, the sense that nothing that crazy could ever happen there. Well… guess again…..

Netflix has outdone itself with this one…. The Perfect Neighbor dives deep into the shocking crime that shattered the illusion of safety in small-town Florida. The way it mixes real-life interviews, police footage, and reenactments feels like a cinematic experience — equal parts eerie and captivating. What really makes it stand out is how it explores not just what happened, but why it happened, peeling back the layers of deception and community denial.

As someone who has multiple degrees in Psychology and has always been drawn to understanding human behavior, I found this series particularly fascinating. It’s not just about a murder; it’s about the masks people wear — and how sometimes, evil looks like the guy next door.

If you’re into true crime with a touch of Southern Gothic energy, this one’s a must-watch. And trust me — after watching it, you’ll never look at your neighbors quite the same way again.