The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is currently ongoing, offering a diverse selection of films inspired by literature for enthusiasts. TIFF 2026 kicked off on Thursday, September 10 and will run until Sunday, September 20.
Among the festival’s extensive lineup of 293 titles, CBC Books has curated a list of highly anticipated films based on literary works that are worth adding to both your reading and viewing lists.
### **YAGA**
The world premiere of “YAGA,” directed by Toronto playwright Kat Sandler, is set to debut at TIFF 2026. The film is an adaptation of Sandler’s 2018 play, reimagining the Slavic folklore witch character in a modern-day mystical whodunnit. Notable Canadian talents such as Hudson Williams and Carrie-Anne Moss are part of the star-studded cast.
### **A Long Winter**
“A Long Winter,” based on Colm TóibÃn’s novella, is a period drama directed by English filmmaker Andrew Haigh, portraying a young man named Mike navigating his mother’s disappearance in the cold Colorado mountains. The cast features Fred Hechinger and D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai.
### **Ba’s Book**
Inspired by Anh Duong’s memoir “Dear Da-Lê,” “Ba’s Book” is a documentary by Ashley Duong, shedding light on her father’s experiences within the Vietnamese diaspora from war-torn Vietnam to Calgary.
### **Being Heumann**
“Being Heumann,” based on Judith Heumann’s memoir, chronicles the remarkable advocacy journey of disability rights activist Judy Heumann, known as the “Mother of the Disability Rights Movement.” The film is directed by Siân Heder.
### **Carrie**
The latest adaptation of Stephen King’s “Carrie” reimagines the telekinetic teen’s story for Gen Z audiences. The series is directed by Mike Flanagan, known for his previous adaptations of King’s works.
### **Clarissa**
“Clarissa” reimagines Virginia Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway” in Nigeria, exploring themes of political strife and trauma in Lagos society. The film is directed by Arie Esiri and Chuko Esiri.
### **Edward Said: Between Worlds**
“Edward Said: Between Worlds” is a documentary celebrating the life and work of Palestinian American scholar Edward Said, showcasing his impact on postcolonial studies. The film is a collaboration between Danish American director Maiken Baird and Palestinian American producers Sarah Mowaswes and Razan Ghalayini.
### **How We Stand**
“How We Stand” is an adaptation of Marie Clements’ play “Tombs of the Vanishing Indian,” depicting a family’s journey through the Native American Relocation Program. The film is directed by Clements.
### **Tangles**
“Tangles,” based on Sarah Leavitt’s graphic memoir, delves into the emotional journey of dealing with a mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. The animated film is directed by Leah Nelson.
### **Phoolan**
“Phoolan” brings to life the autobiography of India’s Bandit Queen, Phoolan Devi, directed by Richie Mehta. The film showcases Devi’s defiance and power in the face of adversity.
### **Look Back**
The live-action adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga “Look Back” is directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda, following the ambitions and friendship of two aspiring manga artists.
### **The Idiot(s)**
“The Idiot(s)” tells the story of Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s wife, Anna, based on Andrew D. Kaufman’s literary biography. The film explores Anna’s struggles in supporting her brilliant yet troubled husband.
### **The Smell of Apples**
“The Smell of Apples” unfolds in apartheid South Africa, tracing the awakening of a privileged white boy to the harsh realities faced by Black South Africans. South African filmmaker John Trengrove directs the adaptation of Mark Behr’s novel.
### **The Unknown**
“The Unknown,” based on “The Case of David Zimmerman” by Lucas Harari and Arthur Harari, follows a photographer’s surreal journey after waking up in a different body. French filmmaker Arthur Harari directs the film, starring Léa Seydoux.
### **Julián**
“Julián” is an animated film depicting a young Caribbean boy’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance. The film is created by Irish animation studio Cartoon Saloon.
These captivating film adaptations bring a fresh perspective to renowned literary works, promising an enriching cinematic experience for audiences at TIFF 2026.