GOAT
The brief
This animated sports comedy plays like a furry version of every underdog sports movie you've ever seen, but Caleb McLaughlin's voice work as Will gives the little goat genuine heart beyond the predictable beats. The roarball sequences have decent energy and the animation pops with bright colors, though it never quite escapes feeling like a DreamWorks knockoff with less wit. Jenifer Lewis steals every scene as Will's tough-love mentor, while the film maintains a brisk pace that'll keep kids engaged even when adults start checking their phones. Perfect for families who enjoyed Zootopia or Sing but have already worn those out, or anyone who needs 100 minutes of harmless, colorful noise.
The verdict
If you're looking for a colorful family film that will keep kids entertained with energetic sports action and genuine heart from Caleb McLaughlin's voice performance, this is a solid choice that delivers predictable but satisfying underdog thrills. If you're expecting the clever writing and originality of Pixar or top-tier DreamWorks, you'll find this feels more like a competent knockoff that adults will tolerate rather than truly enjoy.
Watch with
- 👨👩👧👦 Perfect for families with kids 6-12
- ⚠️ Adults might find it formulaic
Heads up
- Sports violence and contact in roarball scenes (moderate)
- Mild bullying from teammates initially (brief)
Credits
- Director
- Tyree Dillihay
- Cast
- Caleb McLaughlin, Gabrielle Union, Jenifer Lewis, David Harbour, Nick Kroll, Nicola Coughlan, Patton Oswalt
Official synopsis
Will, a small goat with big dreams, gets a once-in-a-lifetime shot to join the pros and play roarball – a high-intensity,
The Double
Make a night of it
Pair this with Brother Bear (2003)
Both animated tales feature unlikely animal protagonists finding strength through transformation.
Total runtime: 1h 40m + 1h 25m = 3h 5m
