In a world where sports icons rake in millions, it's no wonder that even a young goat dreams of stardom. Sony Animation's 'GOAT' tells the tale of Will, a small goat with big aspirations. But here's the twist: he wants to play in the big leagues, despite his size!
Inspired by the real-life struggles and triumphs of basketball legend Stephen Curry, who also lends his voice to the film, 'GOAT' follows the journey of a young goat named Will. As a kid, he watches a thrilling game of 'roarball'—a wild version of basketball played by animals—and declares to his mother (voiced by Jennifer Hudson) that this is his dream.
The film doesn't quite live up to its title, but it's a fun ride. We meet teenage Will (voiced by Caleb McLaughlin), who idolizes Jett Fillmore, the flamboyant panther star player of the struggling local team, the Vineland Thorns. Jett's talent is undeniable, but the Thorns keep losing due to Jett's selfish playstyle.
Will's life takes a turn when he plays an impromptu game with a pro, Mane Attraction (Aaron Pierre), and becomes an internet sensation. The Thorns' owner, Flo (Jenifer Lewis), signs him to the team, much to Jett's chagrin. Will faces ridicule for his size, but his teammates are a colorful bunch, including a social media-addicted ostrich, a Komodo dragon with a unique accent, a dispassionate giraffe, and an aggressive rhino turned doting father.
The real question is: will Will's determination rub off on Jett? And can the Thorns turn their luck around? The outcome may be predictable, but the journey is a delight, especially with the imaginative visuals of stadiums inspired by nature. From dodging stalactites in the Cave to playing on an active volcano in the Inferno, the animation is a spectacle.
The fast-paced animation might be overwhelming for some adults, but the CGI is stunning and humorously brings to life a world of athletic animals. While the writing could be sharper, the film delivers funny parodies of hip-hop videos and sports promos. However, some jokes might leave you rolling your eyes rather than laughing.
The voice cast shines, featuring cameos from sports stars and a standout performance by Wayne Knight as Will's gerbil landlord. 'GOAT' is a lively animated adventure that, while not groundbreaking, offers a fun and amusing take on the sports fable.
