The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is currently in progress, offering a wide array of films for literature enthusiasts to enjoy. Running from Thursday, Sept. 10 to Sunday, Sept. 20, TIFF 2026 presents a lineup of 293 titles.
CBC Books has meticulously reviewed the festival’s selection and identified several highly anticipated films inspired by literary works that are sure to captivate both readers and movie buffs.
**YAGA**
The much-awaited film YAGA, directed by Toronto playwright Kat Sandler, marks her debut as a director. The storyline revolves around a local detective named Carson, who, along with a private investigator, embarks on a mission to uncover the mystery behind the disappearance of party boy Henry Park in a remote coastal town. The investigation leads them to a university professor specializing in urban myths, revealing a web of secrets waiting to be unraveled.
**A Long Winter**
Set in the cold mountains of Colorado, A Long Winter is a period drama following a young man named Mike as he grapples with his mother’s disappearance after a blizzard. Based on Colm Tóibín’s novella, the narrative delves into Mike’s coming-of-age journey while living with his distant father amidst the harsh winter conditions.
**Ba’s Book**
Inspired by Anh Duong’s memoir Dear Da-Lê, Ba’s Book is a documentary crafted by Ashley Duong, depicting her father’s experiences as a Vietnamese refugee in Canada. The film retraces her family’s migration from Vietnam to Calgary, offering a poignant portrayal of their journey within the Vietnamese diaspora.
**Being Heumann**
Being Heumann, based on Judith Heumann’s memoir, chronicles the remarkable life of disability rights activist Judy Heumann. The film showcases her advocacy efforts and pivotal role in securing civil rights protection for individuals with disabilities, culminating in the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990.
**Carrie**
In the latest adaptation of Stephen King’s horror novel Carrie, director Mike Flanagan presents a modern retelling of the classic tale for Gen Z audiences. The story follows Carrie White, a telekinetic teenager seeking retribution against her high school tormentors, exploring themes of trauma and revenge in a contemporary context.
**Clarissa**
Reimagining Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway in present-day Nigeria, Clarissa offers a fresh perspective on the iconic novel. Directed by Nigerian filmmakers Arie Esiri and Chuko Esiri, the film delves into the life of Clarissa Dalloway as she navigates personal relationships and societal challenges while preparing for a significant social event.
**Edward Said: Between Worlds**
Edward Said: Between Worlds is a documentary honoring the legacy of Palestinian American scholar Edward Said. Through archival footage and personal accounts, the film traces Said’s influential career as an activist and writer, shedding light on his profound impact on postcolonial studies.
**How We Stand**
Adapted from Marie Clements’ play Tombs of the Vanishing Indian, How We Stand portrays the poignant story of three Indigenous sisters separated by the Native American Relocation Program. The film explores themes of family, resilience, and connection as the sisters navigate their divergent paths in life.
**Tangles**
Tangles, an animated adaptation of Sarah Leavitt’s graphic memoir, delves into the emotional journey of a woman discovering her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Set in San Francisco, the film explores themes of family, caregiving, and coping with the challenges of memory loss.
**Phoolan**
Phoolan recounts the remarkable life of Phoolan Devi, India’s Bandit Queen, who rose from a marginalized background to become a prominent political figure. Directed by Richie Mehta, the film captures a gripping siege led by Devi and her bandits, showcasing her resilience and defiance in the face of adversity.
**Look Back**
Hirokazu Kore-eda’s adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga Look Back follows the journey of two aspiring manga artists through their formative years. The film delves into themes of friendship, rivalry, and artistic growth as the protagonists navigate the complexities of their shared passion.
**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. The film delves into Anna’s concerns for her husband’s well-being as he grapples with health issues and addiction, shedding light on the personal struggles behind Dostoyevsky’s literary genius.
**The Smell of Apples**
Set against the backdrop of apartheid-era South Africa, The Smell of Apples follows young Marnus as he confronts the harsh realities of racial oppression. Directed by John Trengrove, the film offers a poignant portrayal of a boy’s awakening to the injustices surrounding him.
**The Unknown**
Adapted