Goat

| 2016

Directed by: Andrew Neel

Main Plot

"Goat," directed by Andrew Neel, follows the harrowing journey of a young man named Brad, who, after surviving a brutal assault, decides to pledge to his older brother Brett's fraternity. Seeking camaraderie and a sense of belonging, Brad is thrust into the fraternity's intense and often violent hazing rituals. As the initiation process escalates, the bond between the brothers is tested, revealing the dark underbelly of fraternity culture. The film delves into themes of masculinity, brotherhood, and the psychological impact of hazing, ultimately questioning the cost of acceptance and the true meaning of loyalty.

Characters

  • Ben Schnetzer plays Brad Land, a college freshman who undergoes brutal hazing rituals while pledging a fraternity, exploring themes of brotherhood and trauma.
  • Nick Jonas plays Brett Land, the older brother of the protagonist, who is deeply involved in the fraternity culture and influences his brother's decisions.
  • Gus Halper plays Brett Land, a fraternity member who influences his younger brother, Brad, to join the fraternity, leading to intense hazing and questioning of their values.

Ending Explained

In the movie "Goat," directed by Andrew Neel, the conclusion centers around the protagonist, Brad, and his tumultuous journey through fraternity hazing. After enduring brutal and dehumanizing initiation rituals, Brad becomes increasingly disillusioned with the fraternity culture. The climax occurs during "Hell Week," where the hazing reaches its peak, pushing Brad and the other pledges to their physical and emotional limits. Brad's breaking point comes when he witnesses the severe mistreatment of his fellow pledges, leading him to question the values and purpose of the fraternity. His older brother, Brett, who is also a member of the fraternity, begins to see the toll it takes on Brad and himself. The film concludes with Brad deciding to leave the fraternity, symbolizing his rejection of its toxic culture. This decision is a pivotal moment of self-realization and empowerment for Brad, as he chooses his well-being and integrity over the acceptance of the fraternity. The ending underscores the destructive nature of hazing and the importance of personal agency and moral courage.

Andrew Neel Drama Ben Schnetzer Nick Jonas Gus Halper