The Wilhelm scream is a distinctive sound effect that has been used in numerous films and television shows since the 1950s. It originated from a recording of an actor screaming, which was first featured in the 1951 movie Distant Drums. The scream was named after a character named Wilhelm in the 1953 film The Charge at Feather River, where it was prominently used. This sound effect has become a popular Easter egg among filmmakers, often included as a tribute or inside joke. It has appeared in various franchises, including those created by George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, making it a recognizable audio cue for many movie enthusiasts.