Movie Review: 'GOAT'

Despite what its marketing implies, 'GOAT' tells a heartwarming story that is sure to leave audiences inspired to dream big and reach for the stars.

Will (Caleb McLaughlin) in Columbia Pictures and Sony Picture Animation’s 'Goat'. © 2025 CTMG, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Opening in theaters February 13, 'GOAT' features the voices of Caleb McLaughlin, Gabrielle Union, David Harbour, and more. Inspired by the real-life story of basketball superstar Stephen Curry, the film delivers a powerful message about dreaming big.

Initial Thoughts

Will (Caleb McLaughlin) in Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Animation’s 'Goat'. © 2025 CTMG, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

If the 'GOAT' trailer did not catch your interest, you are not alone. The marketing for this film has made it seem a lot more silly and childish than it actually is. Sure, there are jokes weaved in for younger audiences, but this a family movie, rather than one made for kids.

Adults have plenty of jokes included for them as well, and the overall message is extremely heartwarming. While 'GOAT' has a lot of laugh-out-loud moments, there are also some that will have viewers reaching for the tissues.

Story and Direction

Jett (Gabrielle Union) in Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Animations’ 'Goat'. © 2025 CTMG, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

While it might seem like this is a story we have all heard before, 'GOAT' offers a fresh and unique take on the message of following your dreams. In a world where big animals play Roarball (a play on basketball), a small goat named Will (Caleb McLaughlin) wants nothing more than to take the court.

The movie is not about him working hard to get there, as he is drafted to the Thorns early on. The real message lies in learning to find your place in the world, not listening to others, and being yourself. As he gets to know his teammates, they all grow as one, but also individually.

One of the subtle inclusions, but a powerful one nonetheless, is the fact that the Roarball league is co-ed. Will looks up to Jett as his inspiration. He wants to be like her when he grows up. This normalizes boys and girls, women and men, playing together as one and getting along with each other. It is just one more way that 'GOAT' subverts the tropes of a sports movie.

There are plenty of basketball Easter eggs (directors Tyree Dillihay and Adam Rosette certainly know their stuff), but thanks to the brilliant writing, you do not need to know basketball to understand the story or the jokes. Music also has a strong presence in the film, whether it be the inclusion of the a song or the unforgettable score.

Cast and Performances

(L to R) Modo (Nick Kroll), Lenny (Stephen Curry), Will (Caleb McLaughlin), Olivia (Nicola Coughlan), Jett (Gabrielle Union) and Archie (David Harbour) in Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Animation's 'Goat'. © 2026 CTMG, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Caleb McLaughlin voices Will Harris, the main character, and while he is an amazing live action actor, you never know if that can translate over to voice acting. They are two completely different animals (pun intended). Thankfully, Caleb is sure to blow audiences away as he brings the perfect amount of heart and humor to the film.

Gabrielle Union is a powerhouse and an absolutely brilliant choice for the voice of Jett. A woman who knows exactly what she wants, even if she does a bit of an inflated ego at times. As for the rest of the team: Steph Curry who voices Lenny, David Harbour who voices Archie, Nick Kroll who voices Modo, and Nicola Coughlan who voices Olivia, all bring something special to the table. Creating a voice team that has a comedic and heartfelt chemistry.

Final Thoughts

Modo (Nick Kroll) in Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Animations’ 'Goat'. © 2025 CTMG, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

'GOAT' is far more heartfelt than the marketing leads viewers to believe. Thanks to an incredible cast chemistry, well timed jokes, and gorgeous animation, it sets the bar high for the family films of 2026.

'GOAT' receives a score of 85 out of 100.

(L to R) Will (Caleb McLaughlin) and Jett (Gabrielle Union) in Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Animation’s in 'Goat'. © 2025 CTMG, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

What is the plot of 'GOAT'?

The story follows Will, a small goat with big dreams who gets a once-in-a-lifetime shot to join the pros and play roarball -- a high-intensity, co-ed, full-contact sport dominated by the fastest, fiercest animals in the world. Will's new teammates aren't thrilled about having a little goat on their roster, but Will is determined to revolutionize the sport and prove once and for all that "smalls can ball!"