The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is currently ongoing, showcasing a diverse array of films catering to book enthusiasts. Running from Thursday, Sept. 10 to Sunday, Sept. 20, TIFF 2026 features 293 titles.
CBC Books has meticulously reviewed the festival’s lineup and compiled a selection of highly anticipated movies inspired by literature that are worth adding to your watchlist and reading list.
**YAGA**
Starring Hudson Williams and Carrie-Anne Moss, “YAGA” will make its global debut at TIFF 2026. Based on Kat Sandler’s “YAGA,” this Crave Original series marks Sandler’s directorial debut. The plot follows a local detective and a private investigator in a quest to uncover the disappearance of party boy Henry Park in a coastal town. Their investigation leads them to a university professor specializing in urban myths, unveiling more secrets than answers.
**A Long Winter**
Fred Hechinger stars in the film adaptation of Colm Tóibín’s novella, “A Long Winter.” Set in the icy Colorado mountains, the period drama revolves around a young man named Mike grappling with his mother’s vanishing during a blizzard. Directed by Andrew Haigh, the film explores Mike’s journey to maturity as he copes with his mother’s absence alongside his distant father.
**Ba’s Book**
Inspired by Anh Duong’s “Dear Da-Lê,” “Ba’s Book” is a documentary by Ashley Duong that delves into her father’s experiences as recounted in his memoir. The film portrays Ashley’s recreation of her father’s childhood narratives, shedding light on their family’s migration from Vietnam to Calgary.
**Being Heumann**
“Being Heumann,” based on Judith Heumann’s memoir, chronicles the life of disability rights pioneer Judy Heumann. Directed by Siân Heder, the film delves into Heumann’s advocacy for civil rights legislation protecting individuals with disabilities, culminating in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
**Carrie**
In the latest adaptation of Stephen King’s “Carrie,” director Mike Flanagan reimagines the iconic tale for Gen Z viewers. The story follows Carrie White, a telekinetic teenager seeking vengeance on her high school tormentors. Flanagan, known for previous King adaptations, brings a fresh perspective to this classic horror narrative.
**Clarissa**
“Clarissa” reimagines Virginia Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway” in modern-day Nigeria, depicting the story of Clarissa Dalloway and her husband Richard as they prepare for a social gathering in Lagos. The film explores themes of memory, politics, and trauma as Clarissa navigates her past relationships and societal expectations.
**Edward Said: Between Worlds**
“Edward Said: Between Worlds” is a documentary celebrating the life and work of Palestinian American scholar Edward Said. Directed by Danish American filmmaker Maiken Baird, the film showcases Said’s impact on postcolonial studies and his activism as a writer and professor.
**How We Stand**
Adapted from Marie Clements’ play “Tombs of the Vanishing Indian,” “How We Stand” follows the lives of three sisters separated after relocating from Oklahoma in the 1950s. Through humor and shared experiences, the sisters find connection and resilience despite their divergent paths.
**Tangles**
“Tangles,” based on Sarah Leavitt’s graphic memoir, delves into the emotional journey of a daughter coping with her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Director Leah Nelson presents a poignant story of family, caregiving, and resilience, capturing the complexities of memory and loss.
**Phoolan**
“Phoolan” portrays the life of Phoolan Devi, India’s Bandit Queen, highlighting her rise to power and resilience in the face of adversity. Directed by Richie Mehta, the film offers a gripping biopic of Devi’s remarkable journey as one of India’s most notorious outlaws.
**Look Back**
Hirokazu Kore-eda brings to life Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga “Look Back” in a live-action adaptation. The film follows two aspiring manga artists from childhood to adulthood, exploring their dreams, aspirations, and evolving relationship over the years.
**The Idiot(s)**
Based on Andrew D. Kaufman’s literary biography “The Gambler Wife,” “The Idiot(s)” delves into the relationship between Fyodor Dostoyevsky and his wife Anna. The film portrays Anna’s concerns for Fyodor’s health and well-being as he battles epilepsy and a gambling addiction.
**The Smell of Apples**
Set in apartheid-era South Africa, “The Smell of Apples” narrates the story of a young white boy confronting the reality of racial oppression. Directed by John Trengrove, the film captures Marnus’ awakening to the injustices within his privileged world.
**The Unknown**
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