The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is currently ongoing, offering a diverse selection of movies tailored for enthusiasts of literature. TIFF 2026 commenced on Thursday, September 10 and will run through Sunday, September 20.
CBC Books meticulously reviewed the festival’s lineup of 293 titles and identified a collection of highly anticipated films inspired by literary works that should be on your radar for both reading and viewing pleasure.
**YAGA**
The film “YAGA,” featuring Hudson Williams and Carrie-Anne Moss, is set to premiere at TIFF 2026. Toronto playwright and showrunner Kat Sandler marks her directorial debut with the Crave Original series, “YAGA.” The storyline revolves around a detective, Carson, and a private investigator as they delve into the mysterious disappearance of Henry Park, a local party boy. Their investigation leads them to a university professor specializing in urban myths, uncovering more secrets than answers.
**A Long Winter**
“**A Long Winter**,” adapted from Colm TóibÃn’s novella, portrays a young man named Mike grappling with his mother’s vanishing following a blizzard in the chilling Colorado mountains. Directed by English filmmaker Andrew Haigh, the film explores Mike’s journey towards maturity as he navigates life without his mother in the presence of his distant father.
**Ba’s Book**
Inspired by Anh Duong’s memoir “Dear Da-Lê,” “Ba’s Book” is a documentary by Ashley Duong, recounting her father’s experiences during the Vietnam War and the Iranian Revolution. The film delves into the Duong family’s migration from Vietnam to Calgary, capturing poignant moments from the past.
**Being Heumann**
Based on Judith Heumann’s memoir “Being Heumann,” the film delves into the life of disability rights activist Judy Heumann. It portrays her struggles with polio as a child, her activism for disability rights, and her pivotal role in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Director Siân Heder brings Heumann’s inspiring story to the screen.
**Carrie**
The adaptation of Stephen King’s novel “Carrie” introduces a modern retelling of the telekinetic teenager’s tale for Gen Z audiences. The film, directed by Mike Flanagan, follows Carrie White’s journey as she seeks revenge on her high school tormentors in a gripping narrative.
**Clarissa**
Set in Nigeria, “Clarissa” reimagines Virginia Woolf’s novel “Mrs. Dalloway” in a contemporary African context. The film, directed by Arie Esiri and Chuko Esiri, delves into the life of Clarissa Dalloway as she navigates personal relationships and societal pressures in Lagos.
**Edward Said: Between Worlds**
“Edward Said: Between Worlds” is a documentary chronicling the life of the Palestinian American scholar Edward Said. The film, directed by Danish American filmmaker Maiken Baird, provides an in-depth look at Said’s activism and writings that shaped postcolonial studies.
**How We Stand**
Adapted from Marie Clements’ play “Tombs of the Vanishing Indian,” “How We Stand” tells the story of a family’s relocation as part of the Native American Relocation Program in the 1950s. The narrative explores themes of trauma, resilience, and interconnectedness among family members.
**Tangles**
“Tangles,” based on Sarah Leavitt’s graphic memoir, depicts a daughter’s journey in caring for her mother diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Director Leah Nelson brings this heartfelt story to life through hand-drawn animations and a poignant exploration of family dynamics.
**Phoolan**
“Phoolan” narrates the life of Phoolan Devi, known as India’s Bandit Queen, from her early struggles to her rise as a Member of Parliament. Mississauga-born filmmaker Richie Mehta captures the thrilling siege led by Devi and her bandits, showcasing her resilience and cunning tactics.
**Look Back**
Director Hirokazu Kore-eda presents the live-action adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga “Look Back,” portraying the journey of two young women aspiring to become manga artists. The film follows their growth and artistic aspirations over the years in a heartwarming narrative.
**The Idiot(s)**
Inspired by Andrew D. Kaufman’s literary biography “The Gambler Wife,” “The Idiot(s)” delves into the complex relationship between Fyodor Dostoyevsky and his wife Anna. The film explores Anna’s concerns for Fyodor’s well-being as he grapples with health issues and a gambling addiction.
**The Smell of Apples**
Set in apartheid South Africa, “The Smell of Apples” follows a young boy named Marnus as he confronts the harsh realities of racial oppression. Filmmaker John Trengrove captures Marnus’ awakening to the injustices around him, challenging