Why GOAT Might Be Your Next Family Movie Night Pick

We screened GOAT early and attended the press conference. Here’s our spoiler-free review and why it’s a heartfelt pick for family movie night.

Why GOAT Might Be Your Next Family Movie Night Pick (Virtual Press Conference Recap)

I recently got to screen the upcoming animated film GOAT ahead of its February 13 theatrical release—and before even attending the virtual press conference, I already knew this wasn’t just a sports movie.

Yes, it’s set in a world of animals playing roarball. But underneath that? It’s a story about confidence, comparison, and figuring out who you are.

Then I joined the press conference with the cast and creators (Caleb McLaughlin, Gabrielle Union, Patton Oswalt, Stephen Curry, Erick Peyton and director Tyree Dillihay), and hearing them talk about the film confirmed exactly what I’d felt watching it—this movie has a lot more heart than you expect going in.

First — My Review

GOAT may be a movie about an underdog, but it might just be the underdog film of the year! Unassuming at first glance, it’s packed with heart, personality, and surprisingly complex characters—an impressive feat for a two-hour animated feature. The cinematography is gritty and beautiful, with richly layered environments that add striking depth and texture to the world. The voice cast is spot on: McLaughlin shines as the Curry-inspired Will Harris, Stephen Curry brings charm to Lenny, Gabrielle is effortlessly cool as Jett, Nick Kroll delivers big laughs as Modo, and Aaron Pierre (he’s Mufasa!) makes Mane a perfect antagonist. Director Tyree Dillihay’s debut is a win for both kids and adults—trust us, you’re going to want to see this one.

It’s Not just About Basketball

Yes, the movie takes place in a world of animals playing “roarball,” but the creators were very intentional about the message behind it.

Stephen Curry shared how much of the main character Will’s journey mirrors his own:

“Running your own race, living your own journey, and being ready for when your moment is there is a lot of what I see in myself and Will.” —Stephen Curry

That really stuck with me—especially as a parent. Kids today compare themselves constantly, and the film leans into the idea that your timeline doesn’t have to match anyone else’s.

A Female Idol Kids Can Look Up To

One of my favorite parts hearing about the movie was the relationship between Will and his hero Jett (voiced by Gabrielle Union). She isn’t just a side character—she’s the reason he dreams big in the first place.

Gabrielle talked about how important that representation is:

“Don’t let anyone put a ceiling on your dreams and just know that your dream is yours.” —Gabrielle Union

I love when family films give boys and girls the same heroes.

The Lesson Parents Will Appreciate

The biggest parenting takeaway of the entire press conference was this idea: kids don’t all shine the same way.

“His greatness does not look like Jett’s, and Jett’s greatness does not look like Will’s.” —Gabrielle Union

That feels like such an important conversation starter after a movie night—especially if you have siblings with very different personalities or interests.

There’s Plenty of Humor Too

Patton Oswalt plays the coach… who technically has authority but nobody listens to him.

“An authority figure with zero authority. No one is listening to him.” —Patton Oswalt

So yes—kids get comedy, parents get relatable humor.

Also, there was a running joke about fancy toilets, which honestly tracks for any film trying to win over elementary schoolers.

Why This Feels Like a Family Movie

The filmmakers repeatedly talked about wanting families to watch together, not just kids watching while parents scroll their phones.

Producer Erick Peyton described it as a sit-down-together experience:

“Having the full family sit down and watch something together.” —Erick Peyton

And Stephen Curry summed up the heart of it best:

“Whatever they find makes them unique, is sufficient.” —Stephen Curry

My Takeaway

This feels less like a sports movie and more like a confidence movie. It’s about: underdogs, self-doubt, idolizing others, and learning you don’t need to be them. Honestly, it’s the kind of movie kids laugh at—and parents end up talking about on the ride home.

GOAT arrives in theaters February 13—perfect timing for a family movie night weekend.