Almost as long as there’s been an internet, there’ve been people making Star Wars fan film, either recreating their favorite moments from the films or by creating new adventures (or comedies a lot of the time) set in a galaxy far, far away. This became so prevalent that Lucasfilm began, in 2002, to hold an Official Star Wars Fan Film Contest, which is coming back this year after a brief hiatus. But, my friends, that is all just backstory to the awesomeness on display right below.

Back in 2009, a project was put together by Casey Pugh in which hundreds of Star Wars fans could participate in remaking Episode IV: A New Hope, one bit of a scene at a time. Using animation, props, cut-outs, Halloween masks, or any other method, the over two-hour film was painstakingly recut and reconstructed using fans’ clips as the pieces. It was so popular and well-received that it won an Emmy in 2010 for Outstanding Creative Achievement In Interactive Media. And, you guys, it was AMAZING.

So amazing in fact that a brand new project was let loose on an eager public. That’s right, The Empire Strikes Back Uncut is here and in its full 2 hour 8 minute glory, from 480 different fans. There’s something so mesmerizing about watching a movie you’ve seen a billion times in a completely new way. Moreover, going back and forth between casts or filming methods or filmic quality or hell even straight reproductions versus parodical ones. It never gets old, from the opening scrawl to the Microsoft Paint-inspired few shots. Enjoy!

Congratulations to everyone involved (including Legendary’s own Kelly Wall whose clip is featured right around 92 and a half minutes!) for making such a beloved film feel even more communal.

Image: Star Wars