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The simplicity of Joel Haver's no-budget movie might turn some viewers off at first... it's him playing two characters and it's pretty clear that there's no crew. Lighting, sound, framing and lots of other things we commonly associate with critical elements of a "good" firm are limited/basic/amateurish. But after you take this movie in, you'll recognize those things are all secondary to the story and the emotions a film can bring about.

"We Have to Leave Here Together" is even light on the story, but the emotions it made me feel were powerful. Good intentions, miscommunication, missed opportunities... those are themes worth exploring about life and relationships, specifically.

Joel's acting is fine (more than fine given he's acting against himself on screen, but to empty space in real life) and he captures little quirks and points of interest in the shooting environment. Everything that happens culminates in a powerful finale that has brought me to tears each time I've watched it.

Joel Haver consistently proves that you can tell great stories--and make great movies--without millions of dollars and dozens of crew. "Pretend That You Love Me" seems to blend reality with fiction, establishing an interesting perspective on what dating is as well as what a movie is.

The unpolished nature of the film makes the.beautifully framed shots and emotional impact all the more powerful.

Whether you are a Joel Haver fan or have no idea who he is, and whether you enjoy zero-budget movies or have never seen one, this is a film worth watching and I have enjoyed rewatching it with friends who had no idea what they were going to see.

I am a big fan of Joel and a big fan of this movie.