The Wood and the Calabash
2002, English. Directed by Hugo Zemp.
Among the Senufo people of northern Côte d'Ivoire, the balafon (xylophone with calabash resonators) is an emblematic musical instrument. Balafon makers are all musicians, but a balafon player isn't necessarily an instrument maker. The film shows in detail the manufacture of this musical instrument, an indispensable element in the life of the Senufo people. Each step is shown, from the initial prayer to the genies of the balafon before felling a tree, through the cutting and tuning of the keys and the resonators, to the fixing of the buzzing membranes, which give this instrument its very characteristic timbre. Nanga, the balafon maker, talks about his work and discusses different aspects with friends during a meal.
- Runtime
- 0h 47m
- Post-credits
- None listed
- Language
- English
- Rated
- Check local
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Where to watch The Wood and the Calabash
The Wood and the Calabash isn’t on a subscription OTT platform in India, but you can watch it free online.
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KanopyAvailability in India as of 13 November 2026. Streaming data by JustWatch.
Cast & crew
Details
- Released
- 1 January 2002
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News & fan talk
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The Wood and the Calabash: quick answers
Is The Wood and the Calabash worth watching?
The Wood and the Calabash doesn’t have enough ratings for a verdict yet.
How long is The Wood and the Calabash?
The Wood and the Calabash runs 47 minutes (0h 47m).
Does The Wood and the Calabash have a post-credits scene?
None is listed for The Wood and the Calabash. Viewers tag these on TMDB, so a brand-new film may not be tagged yet.
The Wood and the Calabash parents guide: is it suitable for kids?
No age rating is listed for The Wood and the Calabash yet.
Which OTT platform is The Wood and the Calabash on?
The Wood and the Calabash isn’t on a subscription OTT platform in India, but you can watch it free online. (Checked 13 November 2026.)
What movies are like The Wood and the Calabash?
If you liked The Wood and the Calabash, try Ex Libris: The New York Public Library, Come See Me in the Good Light, The U.S. vs. John Lennon.
Who directed The Wood and the Calabash?
The Wood and the Calabash (2002) was directed by Hugo Zemp.