Director: Tyree Dillihay
Cast: Caleb McLaughlin, Gabrielle Union, Aaron Pierre, Nicola Coughlan, David Harbour, Nick Cole
Rating: PG | Genre(s): Animation, Family, Drama | Run Time: 1hr 40mins
UNIQUE ANIMATION – SAME OLD PLOT INFLUENCED BY POP CULTURE
“Classic underdog story with a regurgitated plot.”
Will Harris (Caleb McLaughlin), dreams of becoming a roarball player in spite of his small stature and hapless situation. A viral moment soon leads him to signing with his dream team, the Thorns. But his struggles are far from over as he faces constant antagonism from opposing player, Mane Attraction (Aaron Pierre), and roarball star, Jett Fillmore (Gabrielle Union).
Sony’s latest animation heavily draws from U.S Gen Z pop culture. The term G.O.A.T or Greatest Of All Time, usually refers to someone who excels in their field of work or does something outstanding.
In this film, the character Will is a literal goat who achieves his biggest goal in becoming an athlete – a feat that is unheard of in his universe, as the sport, roarball (i.e. basketball) is mostly played by bigger animals. He becomes the first small animal to play roarball, thus making him the G.O.A.T.
The animation uses a highly stylized kinetic 2D-3D hybrid animation-style similar to the Spider-Verse franchise. It utilizes 3D models combined with 2D comic/cartoon-like shading, texture and outline – a style known as the 2.5D look. This results in an animation that looks graphic, slightly ‘drawn’ but more expressive and exaggerated.
While Goat’s visuals are stunning, the storyline is overused. Classic underdog plot of a character making it to the top despite setbacks which usually includes bullying and an absent/dead parent.
Final Verdict:
The only thing new about Goat is the fresh animation style and motion-skill, as well as the original twist on the sport of basketball. But if you want a storyline that is unique, Goat may not be the film for you, though it is great for family entertainment.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (8/10)
For you who don’t get tired of the same plotline.
