Directorial synthesis of visual and auditory components in the representation of cultural authenticity across audio-visual media

This conceptual and theoretical study examines how directors may coordinate visual and auditory components when representing cultural authenticity across audio-visual media. Its objective was to develop a literature-based framework linking cultural code, visual composition, sound design, and audience mediation. The study used theoretical analysis, synthesis, comparison, and semiotic interpretation of 41 selected contemporary scholarly sources, supplemented by foundational works in cultural representation, heritage studies, performance studies, theatre semiotics, and sound studies, as well as the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. Authenticity is treated as a negotiated and context-dependent relation among inherited cultural elements, directorial interpretation, media form, and audience reception rather than as the absence of contemporary influence. The reviewed material was organised into visual categories, including scenography, colour palette, and physicality or movement, and auditory categories, including music, timbre, and sonic environment. Six interpretative models were compared according to their dominant techniques and the distribution of control between director and audience. On this basis, a four-stage conceptual model was proposed: analysis of the cultural code, selection of visual and auditory elements, synaesthetic integration, and mediation for the audience.