The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is currently ongoing, showcasing a diverse array of films that cater to book enthusiasts. TIFF 2026 kicked off on Thursday, September 10, and will run until Sunday, September 20.
CBC Books has meticulously examined the festival’s extensive lineup of 293 titles, spotlighting some of the most eagerly awaited literary-inspired movies that deserve a spot on both your reading and viewing lists.
**YAGA**
The world premiere of “YAGA,” directed by Toronto playwright Kat Sandler, will take place at TIFF 2026. This adaptation of Sandler’s 2018 play reimagines the mystical character from Slavic folklore as a contemporary whodunnit. The star-studded Canadian cast includes Hudson Williams from “Heated Rivalry” and Carrie-Anne Moss from “The Matrix” series.
**A Long Winter**
Fred Hechinger stars in “A Long Winter,” a period drama based on Colm TóibÃn’s novella, set in the chilling Colorado mountains. The film, directed by English filmmaker Andrew Haigh, portrays a young man, Mike, coming to terms with his mother’s disappearance after a blizzard, and his ensuing journey to adapt to life alongside his distant father.
**Ba’s Book**
Inspired by Anh Duong’s memoir “Dear Da-Lê,” “Ba’s Book” is a documentary crafted by Ashley Duong, narrating her father’s experiences within the Vietnamese diaspora. The film delves into her family’s migration from Vietnam to Calgary, encapsulating her father’s childhood narratives.
**Being Heumann**
“Being Heumann,” based on Judith Heumann’s memoir, chronicles the life of disability rights activist Judy Heumann. The film depicts her journey from being paralyzed by polio as a baby to becoming a pivotal figure in advocating for disability rights, culminating in the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
**Carrie**
“Carrie,” the latest adaptation of Stephen King’s iconic horror novel, reimagines the tale of the telekinetic teenager for Gen Z audiences. Director Mike Flanagan brings a fresh perspective to this classic story, marking his third adaptation of a Stephen King book.
**Clarissa**
“Clarissa” reimagines Virginia Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway” in contemporary Nigeria, exploring themes of societal expectations, political strife, and existentialism. The film follows Clarissa Dalloway and her husband as they prepare for a social gathering in Lagos, reflecting on past relationships and personal struggles.
**Edward Said: Between Worlds**
“Edward Said: Between Worlds” is a documentary showcasing the life and impact of Palestinian American scholar Edward Said. Directed by Danish American filmmaker Maiken Baird, the film delves into Said’s activism, writings, and influence on postcolonial studies.
**How We Stand**
“How We Stand” is an adaptation of Marie Clements’ play “Tombs of the Vanishing Indian,” portraying the lives of three Indigenous sisters separated under the Native American Relocation Program. The film explores their shared trauma and resilience as they navigate their divergent paths.
**Tangles**
“Tangles” is an animated adaptation of Sarah Leavitt’s graphic memoir, delving into the complexities of caregiving for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease. Director Leah Nelson brings Leavitt’s emotional journey to the screen, portraying the challenges and moments of connection within a family grappling with Alzheimer’s.
**Phoolan**
“Phoolan” tells the story of Phoolan Devi, India’s Bandit Queen, based on her autobiography. Director Richie Mehta captures the gripping narrative of Devi’s defiance and resilience in the face of adversity, depicting a thrilling biopic of one of India’s most legendary outlaws.
**Look Back**
“Look Back,” directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda, is a live-action adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga, following the journey of two young women dreaming of becoming manga artists. The film explores their evolving friendship and artistic pursuits over the years.
**The Idiot(s)**
“The Idiot(s)” portrays the life of Fyodor Dostoyevsky and his wife Anna, based on Andrew D. Kaufman’s literary biography. The film delves into Anna’s struggles as she supports Dostoyevsky through his health challenges and gambling addiction, offering a glimpse into the couple’s intertwined lives.
**The Smell of Apples**
“The Smell of Apples,” set in apartheid-era South Africa, follows a young white boy confronting the realities of racial oppression in his privileged upbringing. Director John Trengrove brings Mark Behr’s powerful novel to life, capturing the boy’s awakening to the injustices surrounding him.
**The Unknown**
“The Unknown,” based on the graphic novel “The Case of David Zimmerman” by Lucas Harari and Arthur Harari, explores the story of a