At first look, it's a simple offer ad from DirecTV. But on second viewing, it's a masterfully directed, beautifully detailed video by Tom Kuntz and Grey New York.

In 23 rapidly changing setups, John Cleese answers (and poses) basic "What?," "Why?," and "When?"questions about the new promotion. Some clever art direction makes it an ad you'll want to record: Pause it during each scene to unearth hilarious, tantalizing details -- including a butler who is willing to do it all, and more, for Mr. Cleese.

At 0.02, you see the faithful aide blowing up a beach ball while Mr. Cleese relaxes in the pool, while at 0.04, he's holding up a wood-paneled television. He's even brave enough to hold the target while Mr. Cleese engages in some target practice.

According to Grey New York chief creative officer Tor Myhren, "It's Monty Python meets Wes Anderson through the twisted lens of Tom Kuntz." The film was shot over two days, added Mr. Kuntz, who has been the go-to director on the agency's "What happens when you have cable" campaign for the client.