The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is currently ongoing, offering a diverse selection of films inspired by literature for enthusiasts. TIFF 2026 kicked off on Thursday, Sept. 10, and will run until Sunday, Sept. 20.
CBC Books has meticulously reviewed the festival’s lineup of 293 titles and is highlighting some of the most eagerly awaited literary-themed movies that are a must-add to both your reading and viewing lists.
**YAGA**
The much-anticipated **YAGA**, based on Kat Sandler’s work, is making its world premiere at TIFF 2026. Directed by Toronto playwright and showrunner Kat Sandler, the film revolves around a local detective and a private investigator investigating the disappearance of a resident party boy in a remote coastal town. As they delve deeper, their quest leads them to a university professor with a penchant for urban myths, revealing a web of secrets and mysteries.
**A Long Winter**
Derived from Colm Tóibín’s novella, **A Long Winter** delves into the story of a young man named Mike grappling with his mother’s disappearance in the cold Colorado mountains during a blizzard. Directed by English filmmaker Andrew Haigh, the film portrays Mike’s coming-of-age journey as he navigates life alongside his distant father.
**Ba’s Book**
Inspired by Anh Duong’s memoir **Dear Da-Lê**, **Ba’s Book** is a documentary by Ashley Duong, shedding light on her father’s experiences during the Vietnam War and as a refugee. The film reconstructs her father’s childhood tales, chronicling their family’s migration from Vietnam to Calgary.
**Being Heumann**
**Being Heumann**, based on Judith Heumann’s memoir, traces the life of disability rights activist Judy Heumann, known as the “Mother of the Disability Rights Movement.” The film captures her journey from battling polio as a child to her influential activism that led to groundbreaking legislation protecting individuals with disabilities.
**Carrie**
**Carrie**, adapted from Stephen King’s novel, offers a contemporary twist on the classic tale of a telekinetic teenager seeking revenge on her high school tormentors. Director Mike Flanagan’s adaptation caters to Gen Z audiences, marking his third King book adaptation.
**Clarissa**
Reimagining Virginia Woolf’s **Mrs. Dalloway**, **Clarissa** transplants the narrative to present-day Nigeria, exploring social dynamics and personal reflections against the backdrop of a bustling Lagos. The film navigates the complexities of relationships and societal issues as the titular character prepares for a significant social event.
**Edward Said: Between Worlds**
**Edward Said: Between Worlds** is a documentary celebrating the life and legacy of Palestinian American scholar Edward Said. Directed by Danish American filmmaker Maiken Baird, the film offers a glimpse into Said’s impactful career and activism, highlighting his contributions to postcolonial studies.
**How We Stand**
**How We Stand** adapts Marie Clements’ play **Tombs of the Vanishing Indian**, narrating the story of a family displaced by the Native American Relocation Program. The film explores themes of separation, resilience, and shared trauma as the characters navigate their divergent paths.
**Tangles**
**Tangles**, derived from Sarah Leavitt’s graphic memoir, portrays the emotional journey of a daughter caring for her mother with Alzheimer’s disease. Director Leah Nelson brings Leavitt’s poignant story to life through a blend of comedy and heartfelt storytelling.
**Phoolan**
**Phoolan** draws inspiration from Phoolan Devi’s autobiography, chronicling the extraordinary life of India’s Bandit Queen. The film captures Devi’s bold exploits and resilience, offering a riveting portrayal of one of India’s most iconic outlaws.
**Look Back**
Hirokazu Kore-eda’s adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga **Look Back** follows the intertwined lives of two aspiring artists as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of pursuing their dreams. The film captures the evolution of their friendship against the backdrop of their artistic aspirations.
**The Idiot(s)**
**The Idiot(s)**, based on Andrew D. Kaufman’s literary biography **The Gambler Wife**, delves into the complexities of Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s life through the lens of his wife, Anna. Polish directors Małgorzata Szumowska and Michał Englert offer a poignant portrayal of Anna’s pivotal role in shaping Fyodor’s literary legacy.
**The Smell of Apples**
Set in apartheid-era South Africa, **The Smell of Apples** narrates the awakening of a young white boy to the harsh realities of racial oppression. Director John Trengrove brings Mark Behr’s powerful novel to the screen, exploring themes of privilege, injustice, and personal transformation.
**The Unknown**
**The Unknown**, adapted from Lucas Harari and Arthur Harari’s graphic novel **The