The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is currently ongoing, featuring a diverse selection of movies tailored for avid readers. Running from Thursday, Sept. 10 to Sunday, Sept. 20, TIFF 2026 presents a lineup of 293 titles.
CBC Books has meticulously curated the festival’s offerings, showcasing some of the most highly anticipated films inspired by literature. Here are a few literary-driven films that deserve a spot on both your reading and viewing lists.
**YAGA**
“YAGA,” directed by Toronto playwright and showrunner Kat Sandler, marks her directorial debut with the premiere of the Crave Original series at TIFF 2026. The storyline revolves around a local detective and a private investigator’s quest to unravel the disappearance of a notorious party boy, intertwined with urban myths.
**A Long Winter**
Based on Colm TóibÃn’s novella, “A Long Winter” portrays the tale of a young man named Mike grappling with his mother’s vanishing amidst a blizzard in the Colorado mountains. Directed by Andrew Haigh, the film captures Mike’s emotional journey living alongside his distant father.
**Ba’s Book**
Inspired by Anh Duong’s memoir “Dear Da-Lê,” “Ba’s Book” delves into the experiences of a Vietnamese refugee in Canada through the lens of a father’s narrative, beautifully depicted by his daughter in a heartfelt documentary.
**Being Heumann**
“Being Heumann” brings to life the inspiring story of Judy Heumann, a disability rights activist, highlighting her journey from childhood paralysis to becoming a leading advocate for disability rights. Directed by Siân Heder, the film sheds light on Heumann’s remarkable life and achievements.
**Carrie**
“Carrie,” the latest adaptation of Stephen King’s iconic novel, reimagines the telekinetic teen’s story for Gen Z audiences. This rendition of the classic horror tale, directed by Mike Flanagan, promises a fresh take on Carrie White’s haunting narrative.
**Clarissa**
“Clarissa” transports Virginia Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway” to modern-day Nigeria, weaving a narrative that mirrors the original novel’s themes against the backdrop of Lagos. The film captures the essence of high society and personal reflections amidst political turmoil.
**Edward Said: Between Worlds**
A documentary chronicling the life of Palestinian American scholar Edward Said, this film delves into his impactful career and writings, resonating with global politics and identity issues. The collaboration with Said’s daughter offers an intimate portrayal of his legacy.
**How We Stand**
Adapted from Marie Clements’ play “Tombs of the Vanishing Indian,” “How We Stand” narrates the poignant story of three sisters navigating life after being deceived by the Native American Relocation Program, finding solace in their shared struggles.
**Tangles**
“Tangles,” based on Sarah Leavitt’s graphic memoir, captures the emotional journey of a daughter caring for her mother with Alzheimer’s disease. The hand-drawn animations breathe life into Leavitt’s poignant storytelling.
**Phoolan**
“Phoolan” chronicles the remarkable life of Phoolan Devi, India’s Bandit Queen, detailing her ascent to power and resilience against adversity. The film, directed by Richie Mehta, offers a thrilling portrayal of Devi’s defiance and cunning strategies.
**Look Back**
Hirokazu Kore-eda’s adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto’s “Look Back” follows the evolving dreams of two young women aspiring to become manga artists. The film captures their artistic journeys and evolving friendship over the years.
**The Idiot(s)**
Based on Andrew D. Kaufman’s literary biography, “The Idiot(s)” explores the complex relationship between Fyodor Dostoyevsky and his wife Anna, shedding light on the writer’s struggles and brilliance through Anna’s perspective.
**The Smell of Apples**
Set against the backdrop of apartheid South Africa, “The Smell of Apples” unravels the life-altering realization of a young white boy, Marnus, as he confronts the systemic oppression faced by Black South Africans. The film, directed by John Trengrove, delves into Marnus’ awakening and moral reckoning.
**The Unknown**
“The Unknown,” based on Lucas Harari and Arthur Harari’s graphic novel, follows a photographer who wakes up in a different body, embarking on a mysterious journey of self-discovery. Léa Seydoux’s portrayal adds depth to this intriguing narrative.
**Julián**
In “Julián,” a heartwarming animated film, Louise Bagnall captures the essence of a young Caribbean boy’s journey to self-expression and acceptance as he embraces his true identity. The story unfolds as Julián immerses himself in the vibrant world of the Mermaid Parade.
These literary-inspired films at TIFF 2026 offer a diverse range of narratives that