The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is currently ongoing, presenting a diverse array of movies inspired by literature. TIFF 2026 kicked off on September 10 and will run until September 20.
CBC Books has reviewed the festival’s lineup of 293 titles and has curated a list of some of the most anticipated films based on literary works that are worth adding to your must-watch and must-read lists.
**YAGA**
The film **YAGA**, directed by Toronto playwright and showrunner Kat Sandler, will make its world premiere at TIFF 2026. The story, based on Sandler’s play from 2018, reimagines the witchy character from Slavic folklore in a modern-day mystical mystery. Notable Canadian actors, including Hudson Williams and Carrie-Anne Moss, star in this adaptation.
**A Long Winter**
**A Long Winter**, adapted from Colm Tóibín’s novella, follows the story of Mike in the cold mountains of Colorado as he copes with his mother’s disappearance during a blizzard. Directed by Andrew Haigh, the film features Fred Hechinger and D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai in leading roles.
**Ba’s Book**
Inspired by Anh Duong’s memoir **Dear Da-Lê**, the documentary **Ba’s Book** depicts the experiences of the Vietnamese diaspora as seen through the lens of a father communicating his past to his daughter, portrayed by Ashley Duong.
**Being Heumann**
The film **Being Heumann**, based on Judith Heumann’s memoir, narrates the life of disability rights activist Judy Heumann and her significant contributions to the movement. Directed by Siân Heder, the movie sheds light on Heumann’s journey towards advocating for people with disabilities.
**Carrie**
**Carrie**, based on Stephen King’s novel, tells the story of a telekinetic teenager seeking revenge on her high school tormentors. Directed by Mike Flanagan, the film offers a fresh take on the classic horror tale for contemporary audiences.
**Clarissa**
**Clarissa** reimagines Virginia Woolf’s novel **Mrs. Dalloway** in Nigeria, focusing on the character of Clarissa Dalloway as she navigates societal gatherings and reflects on past relationships against a backdrop of political unrest and personal trauma.
**Edward Said: Between Worlds**
**Edward Said: Between Worlds** is a documentary honoring the life and work of Palestinian American scholar Edward Said, highlighting his activism and contributions to postcolonial studies. The film features archival footage and insights into Said’s impact on global politics.
**How We Stand**
Adapted from Marie Clements’ play **Tombs of the Vanishing Indian**, **How We Stand** portrays the lives of Indigenous sisters separated by the Native American Relocation Program and their journey towards connection and healing.
**Tangles**
**Tangles**, based on Sarah Leavitt’s graphic memoir, delves into the emotional complexities of caregiving for a family member with Alzheimer’s disease. Directed by Leah Nelson, the film offers a poignant narrative of love, loss, and resilience.
**Phoolan**
**Phoolan** narrates the life of Phoolan Devi, India’s Bandit Queen, and her remarkable journey from oppression to empowerment. Directed by Richie Mehta, the film offers a thrilling portrayal of Devi’s defiance against societal norms.
**Look Back**
Hirokazu Kore-eda’s adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga **Look Back** follows the evolving dreams and aspirations of two talented young women as they navigate the world of manga artistry.
**The Idiot(s)**
Based on Andrew D. Kaufman’s literary biography **The Gambler Wife**, **The Idiot(s)** explores the relationship between Fyodor Dostoyevsky and his wife Anna, shedding light on their struggles and creative journey.
**The Smell of Apples**
Set in apartheid South Africa, **The Smell of Apples** portrays a young boy’s awakening to the realities of racial oppression and his family’s involvement in perpetuating injustice. Directed by John Trengrove, the film offers a poignant reflection on privilege and social awakening.
**The Unknown**
Adapted from Lucas Harari and Arthur Harari’s graphic novel **The Case of David Zimmerman**, **The Unknown** delves into the surreal tale of a photographer who wakes up in a different body after a night of revelry, leading to a perplexing search for identity.
**Julián**
**Julián**, an animated film from Cartoon Saloon, portrays a young Caribbean boy’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance as he embraces his true identity during a visit to Brooklyn. Louise Bagnall directs this heartwarming tale based on Jessica Love’s picture book.
These captivating films showcased at TIFF 2026 promise to bring literature to life on the big screen, offering audiences a blend of diverse narratives
