A Hoof-Tastic Slam Dunk or a Familiar Play? The GOAT Review
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The buzz surrounding Sony Pictures Animation’s latest feature has reached a fever pitch as critics and fans alike finally weigh in on the high-octane world of Roarball.
In our comprehensive GOAT Review, we dive into whether this anthropomorphic sports odyssey manages to break new ground or simply follows the established playbook of the underdog stories that came before it.
Featuring an all-star voice cast led by Caleb McLaughlin and Gabrielle Union, and produced by NBA legend Stephen Curry, the film arrives with massive expectations, especially following the studio's visual triumphs with the Spider-Verse franchise.
Is the Visual Style the True GOAT Review Highlight?
One of the most praised aspects of the film is its stunning aesthetic. Directed by Tyree Dillihay, the movie utilizes a hybrid animation style that many have compared to the "kinetic" feel of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, but with a unique twist focused on textures like fur and scales.
The city of Vineland is depicted as a lush, urban jungle where nature has reclaimed the architecture, providing a vibrant backdrop for the high-intensity sport of Roarball.
Does the Underdog Story Still Resonate in 2026?
The plot follows Will Harris, a Boer goat who is consistently told he is too small to compete against "bigs" like rhinos and panthers. While some critics argue the "smalls can ball" narrative is a bit predictable, others find deep sincerity in the script.
The connection to Stephen Curry's real-life journey—being overlooked early in his career for his stature—adds a layer of authenticity that many viewers have found touching.
Who Stands Out in the Massive Voice Cast?
The ensemble is frequently cited as a major strength. Caleb McLaughlin brings a "Miles Morales-esque" heart to Will, while Gabrielle Union’s Jett Fillmore offers a nuanced look at an aging superstar facing the sunset of her career.
The comedic relief provided by Nick Kroll as a fire-breathing Komodo dragon and Nicola Coughlan as a social-media-obsessed ostrich has also been highlighted as a high point for younger audiences.
Critical Consensus and Reaction Data
Feature | Details and Critical Feedback |
Director | Tyree Dillihay (with co-director Adam Rosette) |
Animation Quality | Highly praised; "sumptuous," "kinetic," and "visually inventive." |
Narrative Theme | Classic underdog sports story; some critics found it "formulaic" yet "sincere." |
Lead Voice Talent | Caleb McLaughlin (Will), Gabrielle Union (Jett), Stephen Curry (Lenny). |
Rotten Tomatoes | Debuted with a strong 83% critical approval rating. |
Metacritic Score | Holds a 59, indicating a more "mixed or average" critical middle ground. |
Standout Element | The "Roarball" sequences, noted for their lightning speed and "fantasy landscape" courts. |
Some Closing Thoughts
Ultimately, "GOAT" appears to be a film that prioritizes heart and visual spectacle over narrative complexity.
While older viewers might find the story beats familiar, the sheer energy and cultural resonance of the film make it a significant entry in Sony's animation catalog.
It is a movie designed for the "next generation" of sports fans, blending modern culture with a timeless message about perseverance.
Whether it becomes the "Greatest of All Time" remains to be seen, but it certainly has enough hustle to stay in the game.
So, will you be watching GOAT this coming weekend? Let us know in the comments section down below!
