The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is currently ongoing, showcasing a plethora of films inspired by literature for avid readers. TIFF 2026 commences on Thursday, September 10, and runs until Sunday, September 20.
CBC Books has sifted through the festival’s extensive lineup of 293 titles to spotlight some of the most eagerly awaited literary-influenced movies that are worth adding to your must-read and must-watch lists.
**YAGA**
The highly anticipated film, **YAGA**, directed by Toronto playwright and showrunner Kat Sandler, marks her directorial debut with the Crave Original series. The story unfolds in a remote coastal town, following local detective Carson and a private investigator as they delve into the disappearance of resident party boy Henry Park. Their investigation leads them to a university professor specializing in urban myths, revealing more enigmas than solutions.
**A Long Winter**
Set against the chilling backdrop of Colorado mountains, **A Long Winter** portrays a period drama centered around young man Mike grappling with his mother’s vanishing after a blizzard. Adapted from Colm TóibÃn’s novella, the narrative delves into Mike’s coming-of-age journey alongside his distant father.
**Ba’s Book**
Inspired by Anh Duong’s memoir, **Dear Da-Lê**, **Ba’s Book** is a documentary that captures the experiences of the Vietnamese diaspora through the father-daughter lens. Ashley Duong pays tribute to her father’s story by recreating his childhood anecdotes, tracing their migration from Vietnam to Calgary.
**Being Heumann**
Based on Judith Heumann’s memoir, **Being Heumann** sheds light on the life of disability rights activist Judy Heumann. The film chronicles her advocacy journey, from organizing protests for civil rights legislation to inspiring the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
**Carrie**
In the latest adaptation of Stephen King’s horror novel **Carrie**, director Mike Flanagan reimagines the classic tale for Gen Z audiences. The storyline follows Carrie White, a telekinetic teenager seeking vengeance on her high school tormentors, exploring themes of abuse and revenge.
**Clarissa**
A modern rendition of Virginia Woolf’s novel **Mrs. Dalloway**, **Clarissa** transposes the narrative to present-day Nigeria. The film captures the essence of high society in Lagos as Clarissa Dalloway navigates through a day filled with introspection, political discourse, and past relationships.
**Edward Said: Between Worlds**
**Edward Said: Between Worlds** is a documentary showcasing the life of Palestinian American scholar Edward Said. The film delves into Said’s activism, writings, and profound impact on postcolonial studies, offering a comprehensive view of his contributions amidst global politics.
**How We Stand**
Adapted from Marie Clements’ play **Tombs of the Vanishing Indian**, **How We Stand** narrates the tale of three sisters separated under the Native American Relocation Program, finding solace and connection through shared experiences and humor.
**Tangles**
**Tangles** brings to life Sarah Leavitt’s graphic memoir, portraying her journey of caring for her mother diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. The film captures the complexities of family dynamics and caregiving in the face of a debilitating illness.
**Phoolan**
**Phoolan** recounts the remarkable story of India’s Bandit Queen, Phoolan Devi, chronicling her rise from oppression to political power. The film captures a gripping 48-hour siege in India, showcasing Devi’s resilience and cunning in the face of adversity.
**Look Back**
Hirokazu Kore-eda’s adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga **Look Back** follows the aspirations of two young women pursuing their dreams of becoming manga artists, exploring themes of artistry, jealousy, and personal growth.
**The Idiot(s)**
Based on Andrew D. Kaufman’s literary biography **The Gambler Wife**, **The Idiot(s)** delves into the life of Fyodor Dostoyevsky and his wife Anna, portraying their struggles with health issues and personal demons.
**The Smell of Apples**
Set in apartheid South Africa, **The Smell of Apples** narrates the awakening of a young white boy to the harsh realities of racial oppression, challenging his perceptions of privilege and justice.
**The Unknown**
Adapted from Lucas Harari and Arthur Harari’s graphic novel **The Case of David Zimmerman**, **The Unknown** delves into a compelling narrative of identity crisis and self-discovery following a photographer’s surreal experience.
**Julián**
**Julián**, an animated film based on Jessica Love’s picture book, captures the heartwarming journey of a Caribbean boy embracing his true self amidst cultural norms and familial acceptance.