Sony Pictures Animation’s GOAT has officially claimed the top spot at the domestic box office, earning $17.2 million in its second weekend and bringing its North American total to $58.3 million. Globally, the animated sports underdog story has crossed the $100 million mark, with $44 million coming from 41 international markets as the film continues its staggered overseas rollout.
The No. 1 finish reinforces a consistent industry reality: family films remain one of the most dependable drivers of theatrical momentum. And with a Black director at the helm, GOAT represents another meaningful win for inclusive storytelling in animation.
Directed by Tyree Dillihay, GOAT is an animated sports underdog story set in a world where animals compete in a high-stakes professional sport called roarball — a more intense, full-contact version of basketball dominated by larger, fiercer predators.
At the center is Will Harris (Caleb McLaughlin), a small Boer goat who dreams of going pro in a league that doesn’t seem built for someone like him. After a viral moment puts his talent on display, Will gets a shot with the struggling team, the Vineland Thorns. But earning a roster spot is just the beginning.
He has to prove himself against bigger competitors — including league MVP Mane Attraction — while navigating self-doubt, team chemistry, and the weight of being underestimated.
At its core, GOAT is about:
- Being overlooked and still believing in yourself
- Carving out space in systems not designed for you
- Teamwork, perseverance, and heart over hype
It’s a sports movie, yes — but really, it’s about confidence, belonging, and redefining what “greatness” looks like.
McLaughlin leads a stacked voice cast that includes Gabrielle Union, Aaron Pierre, Nicola Coughlan, David Harbour, Nick Kroll, Jennifer Lewis, Patton Oswalt, Jelly Roll, Jennifer Hudson, Sherry Cola, Eduardo Franco, Andrew Santino, Bobby Lee, and NBA champion Stephen Curry — who also serves as a producer on the film.
Rounding out the ensemble cast are Luke Cimity, Ayesha Curry, Wayne Knight, Adam Pally, Dwyane Wade, Kevin Love, Angel Reese, A’ja Wilson, Andre Iguodala, Joe La Puma, and VanVan.
The screenplay comes from Aaron Buchsbaum and Teddy Riley, based on the property Funky Dunks by Chris Tougas. Producers include Michelle Raimo Kouyate, Rodney Rothman, Adam Rosenberg, Stephen Curry, and Erick Peyton.
Behind the scenes, cinematography is handled by John Clark, editing by Clare Knight, and the score is composed by Emmy-winning composer Kris Bowers, whose music elevates the film’s emotional and competitive stakes.
Family Films Continue to Deliver
GOAT experienced a 38% second-weekend drop — a strong hold that signals steady word-of-mouth and sustained family turnout. The film originally debuted over the Presidents Day holiday frame and has maintained momentum despite competition from adult-skewing releases like Wuthering Heights.
With an $80 million production budget, the animated feature is positioned for a healthy theatrical run if it continues its current trajectory through March, especially before Pixar’s Hoppers enters the marketplace.
Its performance also aligns with a broader trend: PG-rated films have consistently outperformed PG-13 titles in recent years, proving audiences continue to show up for multi-generational theatrical experiences.
With 2026 box office totals pacing ahead of last year, GOAT is proving that original animated storytelling — especially when driven by diverse creative voices — can still lead the pack.
Family films? Still the GOAT.