UPDATE: The highly anticipated reunion of Stranger Things stars Caleb McLaughlin and David Harbour is here, with their new movie GOAT debuting to an impressive 80% Rotten Tomatoes score from 20 reviews. This animated comedy sports film, directed by Tyree Dillihay, introduces audiences to a world of anthropomorphic animals and the intense sport of “roarball.”
The film’s launch is crucial as it marks both McLaughlin and Harbour’s first major projects since the conclusion of Stranger Things, while also featuring Nicola Coughlan from Bridgerton. Critics are already praising GOAT for its stunning animation and uplifting story. According to ScreenRant reviewer Gregory Nussen, despite relying on familiar sports film formulas, the movie manages to resonate with audiences.
As Sony Pictures Animation continues to assert itself as a powerhouse in animated films, GOAT is poised to follow in the footsteps of hits like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. The studio has set an opening projection of $30 million for the film, although its budget has yet to be disclosed. Animated family films have been known to surpass the billion-dollar mark, with Zootopia 2 being a prime example.
While the reviews indicate a solid start for GOAT, the film faces the challenge of being an original project in a market dominated by sequels. The success of Pixar’s recent sequels contrasts with the mixed results of original features, such as Elio, which struggled despite strong reviews.
With its February 13, 2026 release date approaching, fans are eager to see if GOAT can translate critical acclaim into box office success. As the buzz grows, this film could become a significant player in the animated genre.
Expect more updates as GOAT continues to make waves leading up to its release!
