Plot: What’s it about?
Ellis (Graham Phillips) is just fifteen years old, but he is the most mature, stable member of his family. His father (Ty Burrell) has been out of the picture for years and devotes his time to his new wife and family. His mother (Vera Farmiga) is more interested in new age self help rituals than traditional motherhood, not to mention her less than reliable new boyfriend. Ellis has the strongest bond with a family friend named Goat Man (David Duchovny), a goat herder who lives in the pool house. As the family has such varied needs and lifestyles, Ellis serves as the glue that keeps them all connected. But when he decides he wants to leave for a boarding school, the family is thrown into even more chaos than usual. At school, Ellis even meets a girl who catches his attention, so his life is started to bloom. As he explores this new romance and lifestyle, what will become of Ellis, his new love, and the eclectic family that he left behind?
Video: How does it look?
Goats is presented in 1.85:1 widescreen. This transfer looks quite good, with clean visuals and rock solid depth. The visual design isn’t that dynamic, but this treatment makes the most of things. I found detail to be great in most scenes, though not usually at the “wow” level of depth. Much more refined than a DVD of course, but not quite eye popping stuff. Even so, the visuals shine and colors are natural, while contrast is consistent. So in the end, fans should be more than satisfied with this presentation, as the movie looks great.
Audio: How does it sound?
A DTS HD 5.1 soundtrack is on deck, but the movie’s sound design is basic in nature. The surrounds mostly see use from the music and even then, not much to speak of. Most of the audio is low key atmosphere or dialogue, so this isn’t a bombastic type soundtrack. The movie sounds good though and above all else, has a natural presence. I found vocals to be clear and clean throughout, so no dialogue is out of place here. This disc also includes English and Spanish subtitles.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes some deleted scenes, several behind the scenes featurettes, and the film’s trailer.