Alp Tunca’s review published on Letterboxd:
Where do I even begin? I'm not even sure if I'm worthy of talking about this larger-than-life picture, or as some people say "The Holy Grail of Cinema". It took me 13 days to watch the whole thing (hehe thirteen) and it was quite the journey. I couldn't stop thinking about it even when I wasn't watching and I certainly still haven't.
Out 1 is not a movie that can be described with words but a special feeling that could only be understood by experiencing it. Like most film, Out 1 is filled with imperfections but what makes the movie so unique is the way Rivette embraces them. The small mistakes becoming a part of the narrative alongside the enormous runtime created one of the most realistic movie watching experiences I've ever had. It's mind-boggling to think that this movie was actually conceived in someone's head.
About that runtime; it was absolutely necessary. I mean, any movie can get trimmed down. Hell, even Out 1 has a shorter version called Spectre, which kinda misses the whole point. The long takes in Out 1 were so well crafted and captivating that it feels impossible to imagine someone cutting those beautiful scenes. Yes, there's a shit-ton of characters and an insane amount of multi-layered plotlines (which I agree, at times it was maddening to follow), but once the scenes start to play out with those magnificent long takes, it's impossible not to get caught up in the moment. Despite having no idea where the story was headed nor knowing the meaning behind everything, I couldn't stop watching because I was just that enthralled. Especially those improvised rehearsal scenes were absolute jaw-dropping insanity.
I don't know exactly how or why, but Out 1 really clicked with me. This is a work of art that I'll be returning for many years to come. It's just a remarkable experience, combined with some of the best filmmaking I've ever laid my eyes upon. My opinion towards the movie might change in time for better or worse, but right now, I feel nothing but excitement. Because I just witnessed a game changer.