Composer Ludwig Göransson traveled to Africa to research traditional sounds for Marvel's 'Black Panther.' One of the standout instruments used in the score is the Timbila, a sophisticated xylophone-like instrument from the Chopi people of Mozambique. The Timbila uses wooden keys and gourds as resonators, creating a percussive, melodic sound that Göransson used to represent the high-tech yet traditional essence of Wakanda. It was specifically used in the themes for the legendary character King T'Challa. To make it fit a superhero movie, Göransson layered the Timbila with a full Western orchestra and hip-hop production. This blend of an ancient instrument with modern legend helped Göransson win the Academy Award for Best Original Score, highlighting the power of ethnomusicology in cinema.