ITVX is to publish The Effects Of Lying, a "dark comedy with real heart that brings a refreshing South Asian representation to our screens".

Written by James Hey (Agatha Raisin), the one-off comedy drama's cast is lead by Ace Bhatti (Bohemian Rhapsody, Line Of Duty), Laila Rouass (Stella), and Lauren Patel (Everybody's Talking About Jamie), alongside Navin Chowdhry (Teachers), Shaheen Khan (Bend It Like Beckham) and Mark Williams (The Fast Show).

The streaming platform explains "Delightfully chaotic, The Effects Of Lying follows dutiful husband and loving father Naveen (Ace Bhatti), whose life falls apart over a series of shocking events taking place over the course of just one day. Decades of festering secrets are finally exposed and Naveen is forced to face up to some home truths.

"Naveen has lived his life by the book; he's a loyal husband and loving father. He's sacrificed everything for his family, but today is going to be different. After finding his teenage daughter Simran (Patel) secretly gorging and his dissatisfied wife Sangeeta (Rouass) in bed with his brother (Chowdhry), lies come pouring out and the truth is uncovered.

"Naveen must now get to grips with the key relationships in his life that he bases his identity on. What is he, if not a husband, a father, a brother? He's allowed himself to be passive too long, pushed around by the currents of other people's whims and desires. He must learn to take responsibility for his own life and his own happiness."

Ace Bhatti says about his character: "Naveen is a man who tries to do right by his family. He's trying so hard to keep his fractious family together, but within 24 hours he learns three very deep, very dark secrets that break his life apart. By lunchtime, his whole life is shattered...and he has to learn very quickly how to deal with that on an emotional level."

Laila Rouass adds: "Sangeeta finds herself trapped and disappointed that her life has taken the route it has. We find her at a real crossroads and I think a lot of women can relate to someone like her - a reflection of the opportunities you didn't take. This film meant a lot to us and the opportunity to do something where everyone's united in the reason they're doing it. For me, that's where the magic lies in this movie."

Produced by Bonaparte Films, the episode is directed by Isher Sahota and produced by Jon Tarcy, who have previously worked together on 2017 web pilot Life In Black.

Jon Tarcy and Isher Sahota from producers say: "We're thrilled to partner with ITVX on this exciting journey. The Effects Of Lying is a relatable, hilarious and heart-warming film, so we are delighted the show has found its home on ITVX. This was a completely independent project shot in just 12 days. Our mission was to bring a new moment in representation to UK screens, so to be supported by a major platform in this competitive climate is a dream come true."

The Effects Of Lying will launch on ITVX on 6th July, during South Asian Heritage Month.