GOAT movie review: Vijay starrer and Venkat Prabhu directorial, GOAT has finally hit theatres, generating massive buzz. As one of Vijay’s last two films, it carries high expectations, with fans eager to see if the film lives up to the hype. So, does it? Let’s find out.
The plot of GOAT
The film, as teased in its trailer, revolves around Gandhi (Vijay), a key figure in an Anti-Terrorism Specialist team that includes Kalyan (Prabhu Deva), Sunil (Prashanth), Nasir (Jayaram), and Ajmal. Their former colleague Menon (Mohan) has been labeled a traitor for aiding terrorists. The movie begins with Gandhi’s squad completing a mission in Kenya, resulting in the death of Menon’s family, including his son. Surviving the attack, Menon vows revenge and targets Gandhi using his other son, also played by Vijay.
The first half of the movie blends action, comedy, and family emotions, setting the stage for the second half, where a thrilling father-son conflict takes center stage.
A masterfully crafted action thriller
While the core storyline may seem like a standard revenge plot, director Venkat Prabhu skillfully elevates it into a captivating action thriller. Known for his unique storytelling style, Prabhu infuses GOAT with plenty of adrenaline-pumping "mass" moments, keeping viewers hooked from start to finish.
Prabhu doesn’t rely on leaving twists up to the audience to figure out but instead reveals them at just the right time, turning each into a crowd-pleasing moment. This approach keeps the film’s momentum high while adding excitement to every twist.
Vijay’s portrayal of the father character is powerful, exuding the larger-than-life presence that fans love, while his performance as the son is refreshingly different and grounded. Alongside him, supporting actors like Santhanam, S.J. Suryah, and Prakash Raj bring their own charm, with Vijay’s effortless modulation entertaining fans throughout the film.
Special moments and a tribute to Captain Vijayakanth
One of the standout highlights is the appearance of AI-generated Vijayakanth, seamlessly integrated into the storyline. This emotional tribute to the legendary actor adds a special touch for fans of both Vijay and Vijayakanth. Additionally, the rumored cameos by several well-known actors and actresses keep the hype alive, leading all the way to the film's intense climax.
Music, Action, and final verdict
Yuvan Shankar Raja’s music amplifies the film’s tension, especially during the action sequences. The much-anticipated song "Vizhiyil Pattu" underwent some changes after receiving criticism, and it now fits perfectly into the celebratory atmosphere of the film. The climactic sequence, featuring a parallel of a CSK cricket match and a high-stakes action scene, is a true spectacle that fans will love.
The Goat successfully delivers a combination of high-energy action, emotional drama, and crowd-pleasing moments, making it a true celebration for Vijay’s fans. As one of his final films, it stands as a fitting tribute to the star’s career, making it a must-watch for die-hard Thalapathy fans.