ITVX Picks Up Bonaparte Films’ The Effects of Lying

ITVX has acquired Bonaparte Films’ debut production, The Effects of Lying, for a July 6 premiere.

Directed by Isher Sahota (Grace, McDonald & Dodds), the comedic drama follows Naveen, a dutiful husband and loving father whose life falls apart over a series of events that take place over the course of just one day. Decades of secrets come to light, and he is forced to take responsibility for his own life and happiness.

The cast features Ace Bhatti (Bohemian Rhapsody, Line of Duty), Laila Rouass (Holby City, Spooks), Lauren Patel (Everybody’s Talking About Jamie), Navin Chowdry (The End of the F***ing World, Our Girl), Shaheen Khan (Bend it Like Beckham) and Mark Williams (Harry Potter). It is written by James Hey (Doctors).

“Naveen is a man who tries to do right by his family,” Bhatti said. “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.”

Rouass said of her character, “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.”

“We’re thrilled to partner with ITVX on this exciting journey,” said Bonaparte Films’ Jon Tarcy and Isher Sahota. “The Effects of Lying is a relatable, hilarious and heartwarming film, so we are delighted it 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 U.K. screens, so to be supported by a major platform in this competitive climate is a dream come true.”