"Goat" (2016) is an intense drama directed by Andrew Neel that explores the dark side of fraternity culture, particularly hazing, and its psychological toll. Set on a college campus, the film follows Brad (Ben Schnetzer), a freshman who is recovering from a brutal assault. Hoping to rebuild his sense of security and identity, he decides to pledge the same fraternity as his older brother Brett (Nick Jonas), who is already an established member. What ensues is a disturbing journey into the violent and dehumanizing world of fraternity initiation rites, testing the boundaries of loyalty, masculinity, and emotional endurance.
The film draws inspiration from Brad Land’s memoir of the same name, and its narrative feels grounded in reality, offering a raw portrayal of peer pressure and toxic masculinity. Schnetzer delivers a compelling performance as Brad, embodying vulnerability and confusion as he seeks acceptance. Nick Jonas, in a surprising turn from his pop music persona, effectively portrays Brett, who is torn between his loyalty to his brother and his obligation to the fraternity.
One of the film’s strengths is its visceral depiction of the brutality involved in hazing rituals. Neel’s direction does not shy away from showing the physical and psychological torment that pledges endure, making the viewer question the ethics of these traditions. The hazing scenes, which include relentless humiliation and violent tasks, are unsettling and serve as a critique of the lengths to which individuals go in order to be part of a group. The movie also touches on the theme of bystander complicity, as Brett watches his brother suffer but hesitates to intervene.
However, the film’s relentless grimness can feel overwhelming at times, and its narrative structure can come off as somewhat repetitive. While it succeeds in portraying the toxicity of hazing, it sometimes falters in developing deeper emotional arcs or offering broader commentary on fraternity culture.
Overall, "Goat" is a hard-hitting film that tackles an important topic with unflinching honesty. While it may not be easy to watch, it provides a powerful commentary on the psychological impact of hazing and the complexities of brotherhood.
Overall, *Goat* is a gripping portrayal of the toxic culture surrounding fraternity life, delving into the devastating effects of hazing on young men. It effectively raises questions about conformity, peer pressure, and the need for belonging at the expense of one's dignity. Though not an easy watch, the film's brutal honesty leaves a lasting impact, making it a thought-provoking exploration of masculinity, loyalty, and moral conflict.
