Cutting his teeth on CollegeHumor Originals and other assorted, well-known sketch-comedy outlets, director/writer Paul Briganti is a voice to be reckoned with in the world of internet video. He’s a filmmaker with an impressive resume with credits ranging from Comedy Central to the Onion. And, now, he brings his South by Southwest selected film, Donald and Jess, to the hungry internet masses. Thank you, Paul. I’ll take seconds.

Funny and well-performed, Donald and Jess is a simple film—but that’s what makes me admire it so much. A single location, three actors, and an ill-placed sense of machismo make for a low-key, well-crafted comedic ride. It’s an interesting reversal on the “everyman hero” concept, wherein a schlubby plumber attempts to fight for a girl he’s just fallen for to disastrous results.

I’ve mentioned before how difficult it is to break down the minutiae of why comedy “works.” In the case of Brigante’s films (and the actors he utilizes), much of it comes down to perfect timing and line-reading. This short isn’t “joke-filled” and I’d imagine that on paper it might not even be all that hilarious. But, the way things are said and when they are recited just coalesces everything into a delectable joke-smoothie.

But, the comedy isn’t purely verbal either—some of the best punchlines are visual gags. This isn’t slapstick so to speak, but it’s hard to deny Briganti has a way of capturing a punchline within a frame. There’s a certain comedic joy in watching a Prius reverse in order for the driver to get out and start a fight. It’s this kind of directorial finesse that gives Donald and Jess it’s well-deserved acclaim. Moreover, despite the comedic shenanigans, there is still empathy present in this film. The characters are grounded and “real” enough that the whole thing doesn’t become an over-the-top improv “riff-off” where characters just stand around shouting at one another. To put it simply, we care about Ronald…*ahem*…Donald.

The acting, of course, is top notch. The film stars up and comers, Stephanie Allynne, Adam Lustick, and George Basil. It’s also beautifully lensed by cinematographer Matt Garrett. Obviously, we’re keen to check out more of Mr. Briganti’s work. And, unsurprisingly, he has a lot coming down to the pipe. He will be producing and directing two different shows for both MTV and TruTv, both of which are being put together through the production company Big Breakfast.

For more info on Paul Briganti and his assorted cinematic adventures, be sure to visit his website.