The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is currently ongoing with a diverse selection of films for literature enthusiasts to enjoy. TIFF 2026 is scheduled to take place from Thursday, September 10, to Sunday, September 20.
Delving into the festival’s extensive lineup of 293 titles, CBC Books has curated a list of highly anticipated films inspired by literary works. These movies are not only recommended for film enthusiasts but also for those looking to expand their reading list.
**YAGA**
Starring Hudson Williams and Carrie-Anne Moss, “YAGA” will have its world premiere at TIFF 2026. The film is based on Kat Sandler’s work of the same name. Director Kat Sandler makes her debut with this Crave Original series, set in a remote coastal town. The story follows local detective Carson and a private investigator as they investigate the disappearance of resident party boy Henry Park. Their search leads them to a university professor delving into urban myths, revealing more secrets than answers.
An adaptation of Sandler’s 2018 play, “YAGA” reimagines a witchy character from Slavic folklore in a modern mystical whodunnit. The Canadian ensemble cast includes Hudson Williams from “Heated Rivalry” and Carrie-Anne Moss from “The Matrix” series.
**A Long Winter**
Fred Hechinger stars in the film adaptation of Colm Tóibín’s novella, “A Long Winter.” The story unfolds in the frigid Colorado mountains, following young man Mike as he copes with his mother’s disappearance after a blizzard. Based on Irish writer Colm Tóibín’s short novel, the film portrays Mike’s coming-of-age journey alongside his distant father.
Directed by English filmmaker Andrew Haigh, known for “All of Us Strangers,” the cast includes Fred Hechinger and Toronto-born actor D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai.
**Ba’s Book**
Inspired by Anh Duong’s “Dear Da-Lê,” “Ba’s Book” is a documentary by Ashley Duong, capturing her father’s experiences during the Vietnam War and the Iranian Revolution. The film retraces her father’s childhood stories, depicting their family’s migration from Vietnam to Calgary.
**Being Heumann**
“Being Heumann,” based on Judith Heumann’s memoir, chronicles the life of disability rights activist Judy Heumann. The film portrays her journey from childhood polio paralysis to her activism, culminating in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Directed by Siân Heder, the film sheds light on Heumann’s impactful advocacy work.
**Carrie**
In the latest adaptation of Stephen King’s “Carrie,” the telekinetic teenager’s story is reimagined for Gen Z audiences. The film explores Carrie White’s vengeance on high school bullies with a modern twist. Director Mike Flanagan brings a fresh take on this classic horror novel for Prime.
**Clarissa**
“Clarissa” reimagines Virginia Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway” in contemporary Nigeria. Set in Lagos, the film follows Clarissa Dalloway as she navigates a day filled with memories, political reflections, and personal introspection.
**Edward Said: Between Worlds**
“Edward Said: Between Worlds” is a documentary showcasing the life of Palestinian American scholar Edward Said. Directed by Danish American filmmaker Maiken Baird, the film offers a glimpse into Said’s impact on postcolonial studies and global politics.
**How We Stand**
“How We Stand,” based on Marie Clements’ play “Tombs of the Vanishing Indian,” portrays the journey of three sisters separated in their youth who later find connection through shared trauma. The film captures their disparate lives and eventual reunion.
**Tangles**
Adapted from Sarah Leavitt’s graphic memoir, “Tangles” follows the emotional journey of a woman discovering her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Director Leah Nelson brings this poignant story to life with hand-drawn animations and a stellar voice cast.
**Phoolan**
“Phoolan” tells the tale of Phoolan Devi, India’s Bandit Queen, based on her autobiography. The film, directed by Richie Mehta, showcases Phoolan’s defiance and cunning in a gripping biopic set during a 48-hour siege.
**Look Back**
Hirokazu Kore-eda directs the live-action adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga “Look Back.” The film follows two aspiring manga artists through their journey from childhood to adulthood, exploring their evolving friendship and artistic ambitions.
**The Idiot(s)**
Based on Andrew D. Kaufman’s “The Gambler Wife,” “The Idiot(s)” delves into the relationship between Fyodor Dostoyevsky and his wife Anna. Polish directors Małgorzata Szumowska and Michał Englert explore Anna’s concern for Fyodor