Sony Pictures Animation's Goat, which opened in theaters on February 13, delivers an energetic, visually inventive sports story powered by an impressive ensemble voice cast - including Grammy-winning Christian and country artist Jelly Roll. In a year already crowded with animated animal features, Goat manages to stand out thanks to dynamic court sequences, heartfelt performances, and an underdog narrative that plays familiar beats with sincerity.
While the story follows a traditional sports-movie arc, it's the cast - blending Hollywood talent with NBA and WNBA stars - that gives Goat its personality and crossover appeal.
A Small Goat With Big Dreams
At the center of the film is Will Harris (voiced by Stranger Things star Caleb McLaughlin), a determined young goat living in the city of Vineland. In this world of anthropomorphic animals, the elite sport of "roarball" resembles basketball - except it's more intense, more physical, and often played on dangerous terrain.
Will dreams of playing professionally, despite being considered one of the league's "smalls" - animals not physically built for the sport. When a viral streetball showdown against reigning MVP Mane Attraction (voiced by Aaron Pierre) gains attention online, Will is unexpectedly signed to his hometown team, the Vineland Thorns.
However, he quickly learns he's been brought in more as a publicity move than a serious roster addition. What follows is a classic underdog journey filled with locker-room tension, self-doubt, and eventual team unity.
Jelly Roll's Presence Adds Crossover Appeal
One of the film's notable voice performances comes from Jelly Roll, who voices Grizz - a powerful grizzly bear roarball player. Known for blending country, rock, and Contemporary Christian influences, Jelly Roll has built a devoted fan base through his testimony-driven music and recent Grammy-winning success.
His vocal performance in Goat carries a rugged authenticity that fits the character's imposing presence on the court. While Grizz is not the emotional centerpiece of the story, Jelly Roll's involvement adds a layer of crossover interest, particularly for audiences familiar with his faith-leaning music and public journey.
For fans who have followed his career from independent artist to mainstream recognition, this animated role marks another step in his expanding creative portfolio.
Gabrielle Union and Caleb McLaughlin Anchor the Film
The emotional core of Goat rests on the relationship between Will and Jett Fillmore, the legendary black panther player voiced by Gabrielle Union.
Jett is the face of the Thorns - a superstar grappling with aging, criticism, and fear of losing her legacy. Union brings depth and nuance to the role, balancing confidence with vulnerability. Her evolving mentorship of Will becomes the heart of the film.
McLaughlin delivers an earnest and grounded performance as Will. His voice work captures youthful determination without veering into exaggeration, making the character easy to root for.
An All-Star Voice Lineup
Beyond Jelly Roll, the film features a wide-ranging ensemble:
-
David Harbour as Archie Everhardt, the team's imposing rhinoceros
-
Nicola Coughlan as Olivia Burke, an anxious but loyal ostrich
-
Nick Kroll as fiery Komodo dragon Modo Olachenko
-
Patton Oswalt as Coach Dennis
-
Jenifer Lewis as team owner Flo Everson
-
Stephen Curry, who also serves as a producer, voices giraffe player Lenny Williamson
The basketball authenticity deepens with contributions from real NBA and WNBA figures, including Dwyane Wade, Kevin Love, Angel Reese, A'ja Wilson, and Andre Iguodala. Their involvement lends credibility to the roarball sequences, which feel grounded in real competitive dynamics despite the fantastical setting.
Visually Bold and Inventive
Where Goat truly excels is in its animation.
Sony Pictures Animation continues to push stylistic boundaries. Vineland is not just another animal city - it's a lush, creatively designed environment where architecture and nature blend seamlessly. Courts are set atop lava flows, icy surfaces, and jagged terrain, raising the stakes of each roarball match.
The action sequences are kinetic and fluid, capturing speed and intensity without becoming overwhelming. Each game feels distinct, visually fresh, and genuinely exciting.
Themes That Resonate
At its core, Goat explores themes of:
-
Self-belief in the face of doubt
-
Teamwork over ego
-
Letting go of pride
-
Passing the torch to the next generation
While the storyline follows familiar sports-movie structure, it executes those beats with warmth and clarity. The championship climax may be predictable, but it remains satisfying.
Should Christians Watch This?
For Christian families wondering whether Goat is appropriate, the film is largely safe, uplifting, and values-driven.
There is no strong language, no adult themes, and no inappropriate humor. The story centers on perseverance, humility, teamwork, and learning to put ego aside - themes that align well with biblical principles such as servant leadership and unity (Philippians 2:3-4).
Jett's journey from pride to humility and Will's determination to keep believing despite being underestimated offer positive takeaways for younger viewers. The emphasis on teamwork over individual glory reinforces the idea that success is not meant to be achieved alone.
While the film is not faith-based and does not contain explicit Christian messaging, it promotes:
-
Encouragement over discouragement
-
Perseverance through hardship
-
Mentorship and accountability
-
Selflessness within a team
Parents should note that the roarball sequences are intense and high-energy, though not graphic. Competitive tension and mild sports conflict are present, but nothing excessive.
Additionally, Christian music fans may appreciate the involvement of Jelly Roll, whose testimony and faith-influenced music have impacted many believers in recent years.
Overall, Goat is a clean, family-friendly sports film with positive messages about character and growth. It's suitable for children, teens, and adults looking for an energetic animated story rooted in teamwork and resilience.
Final Verdict
Goat doesn't reinvent the animated sports genre, but it delivers a visually dynamic and emotionally sincere family film. Strong performances from Caleb McLaughlin and Gabrielle Union anchor the story, while Jelly Roll's involvement adds meaningful crossover appeal.
With inventive animation, energetic game sequences, and a heartfelt underdog message, Goat proves that even in a crowded animated field, there's still room for a new contender.
⭐ Rating: 4/5
An entertaining, high-energy animated sports film powered by standout visuals and a star-studded voice cast - including Jelly Roll in a notable animated role.
