UPDATE: The highly anticipated reunion of Stranger Things stars Caleb McLaughlin and David Harbour has officially launched with their new animated film, GOAT, debuting to an impressive 80% score on Rotten Tomatoes from 20 reviews. This animated comedy sports movie, directed by Tyree Dillihay, is making waves just ahead of its release on February 13, 2026.
GOAT follows the journey of a small goat who dreams of playing the intense sport of “roarball” among the fiercest animals in the world. The film not only features the talents of McLaughlin and Harbour but also stars Nicola Coughlan, Gabrielle Union, Nick Kroll, Stephen Curry, and Jennifer Hudson, making it a star-studded affair that audiences are eager to see.
Critics have praised GOAT for its stunning animation and uplifting story, with ScreenRant’s reviewer stating, “A movie that has no shortage of pre-chewed clichés probably shouldn’t work, and yet, it resoundingly does. A really effective, stunningly animated, inspiring success.” This positive reception has sparked discussions about whether the film can achieve box office success, especially with a projected opening of $30 million as reported by Deadline.
With animated family movies consistently raking in over $1 billion at the box office since 2020, GOAT stands to benefit from its unique premise despite being an original project. Recent examples like 2025’s Zootopia 2 showcase the potential for success in this genre.
Sony Pictures Animation, known for its hit films including Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and KPop Demon Hunters, is behind this project, further enhancing expectations. The studio has solidified its reputation as a powerhouse in animated films, with many eagerly awaiting the upcoming Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse in 2027.
As excitement builds, the real question remains: Will GOAT translate its critical acclaim into commercial success? The film’s box office performance will be closely watched as it aims to carve its place among animated hits.
Stay tuned for more updates as the release date approaches and the film gears up for its debut!
