There are two major masterpieces that really brought the language of dreams or nightmares to the screen. The initial one is Dali and Bunuel's 'Un Chien Andalou,' and then later, David Lynch's 'Eraserhead.'

In this quote, Gaspar Noé highlights the significance of two masterpieces in the realm of cinema that captured the language of dreams and nightmares: Dali and Bunuel's "Un Chien Andalou" and David Lynch's "Eraserhead." Noé points out that these films stand out as influential works that challenge traditional narrative forms and instead embrace the surreal, dreamlike qualities of filmmaking. These works explore the subconscious mind, often leaving viewers with a sense of unease and disorientation, much like the feeling experienced in vivid, abstract dreams or unsettling nightmares.

The reference to "Un Chien Andalou" (1929) by Salvador Dalí and Luis Buñuel points to the pioneering nature of the film in the world of surrealism. The film is infamous for its shocking, non-linear imagery and its attempt to depict the irrationality of the human subconscious. Likewise, "Eraserhead" (1977) by David Lynch is noted for its haunting visuals and disturbing atmosphere, creating an intense dreamlike experience that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy. Both films are hailed for their ability to depict the strange and unsettling nature of human thought, and they have influenced countless filmmakers and artists since their release.

The origin of this quote stems from Gaspar Noé, a filmmaker known for his provocative and often controversial works, such as Irreversible and Enter the Void. Noé, much like Lynch and Buñuel, has been drawn to exploring the darker, more subconscious aspects of human experience. By referencing these two films, he positions them as pivotal moments in cinematic history, where filmmakers pushed the boundaries of conventional storytelling to evoke deeper emotional and psychological responses from the audience.

In essence, Noé's quote underscores the importance of surrealist and experimental cinema in the portrayal of the human subconscious. Through films like "Un Chien Andalou" and "Eraserhead," directors like Dali, Buñuel, and Lynch created unique cinematic experiences that continue to inspire and challenge filmmakers in their quest to explore the world of dreams and nightmares on screen.