The Wilhelm Scream

Another reason to love the internet -- someone has taken the time to research and meticulously document the history of the Wilhelm scream, a popular sound effect that has now become something of an in-joke for sound engineers and movie fans. Reportedly, it was originally recorded by Sheb Wooley, best known as one of the bad guys in "High Noon" and as the writer-performer of the 50's novelty hit "Purple People-Eater." He also wrote the theme song for "Hee Haw." The distinctive scream has been used in many movies and You Tube has a clever compilation: