The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has kicked off, offering a plethora of movies tailored for enthusiasts of literature. Running from Thursday, September 10, to Sunday, September 20, TIFF 2026 boasts a lineup of 293 titles.
CBC Books delved into the festival’s extensive roster and curated a selection of highly anticipated films inspired by literary works that are sure to captivate audiences and spark interest in both reading and watching.
**YAGA**
Starring Hudson Williams and Carrie-Anne Moss, the world premiere of “YAGA” at TIFF 2026 is based on Kat Sandler’s book of the same name. Set in a remote coastal town, the story follows local detective Carson and a private investigator as they unravel the mystery behind the disappearance of Henry Park, the resident party boy. Their investigation leads them to a university professor specializing in urban myths, revealing a web of secrets waiting to be uncovered.
**A Long Winter**
Fred Hechinger stars in “A Long Winter,” a film adaptation of Colm Tóibín’s novella. The narrative unfolds in the icy Colorado mountains, focusing on young man Mike grappling with his mother’s vanishing act during a blizzard. As days turn into weeks with no sign of his mother, Mike navigates life alongside his distant father.
**Ba’s Book**
Inspired by Anh Duong’s memoir “Dear Da-Lê,” “Ba’s Book” is a documentary by Ashley Duong that delves into her father’s experiences as a Vietnamese refugee. The film retraces the family’s journey from Vietnam to Calgary, capturing poignant moments and shedding light on the Vietnamese diaspora.
**Being Heumann**
Based on Judy Heumann’s memoir “Being Heumann,” this film chronicles the life of the disability rights activist and her pivotal role in advocating for legislation to protect individuals with disabilities. The story portrays Heumann’s journey from her battle with polio as a child to her impactful activism as an adult.
**Carrie**
The adaptation of Stephen King’s novel “Carrie” for Gen Z audiences is helmed by Mike Flanagan. The story follows the telekinetic teenager Carrie White as she grapples with her abusive upbringing and seeks revenge on her high school tormentors.
**Clarissa**
“Clarissa” reimagines Virginia Woolf’s classic novel “Mrs. Dalloway” in a contemporary Nigerian setting. The film transports viewers to Lagos, where Clarissa Dalloway and her husband Richard navigate social gatherings while confronting past relationships and societal challenges.
**Edward Said: Between Worlds**
A documentary honoring the legacy of Palestinian American scholar Edward Said, “Edward Said: Between Worlds” delves into Said’s life and contributions through archival footage and interviews. The film offers a glimpse into Said’s impact on postcolonial studies and global politics.
**How We Stand**
“How We Stand” is an adaptation of Marie Clements’ play “Tombs of the Vanishing Indian,” depicting the journey of a mother and her daughters navigating the aftermath of the Native American Relocation Program. Through humor and shared experiences, the family finds resilience and connection.
**Tangles**
Based on Sarah Leavitt’s graphic memoir, “Tangles” explores a daughter’s journey as she grapples with her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. The animated film captures the complexities of caregiving and family dynamics in the face of progressive illness.
**Phoolan**
“Phoolan” portrays the remarkable life of Phoolan Devi, known as India’s Bandit Queen, from her tumultuous childhood to her rise to political power. The film captures a gripping 48-hour siege in India, showcasing Devi’s daring exploits and resilience.
**Look Back**
Hirokazu Kore-eda’s “Look Back” adapts Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga, following two aspiring young artists through their growth from childhood to adulthood. The narrative delves into their evolving artistic ambitions and complex relationship over the years.
**The Idiot(s)**
Based on Andrew D. Kaufman’s literary biography, “The Idiot(s)” delves into the life of Fyodor Dostoyevsky through the lens of his wife Anna. The film explores Anna’s role in shaping Fyodor’s legacy and his seminal work, “The Idiot.”
**The Smell of Apples**
Set in apartheid-era South Africa, “The Smell of Apples” follows a young white boy grappling with his privilege and confronting the harsh realities of racial oppression. The film captures the boy’s awakening to the injustices surrounding him.
**The Unknown**
Adapted from Lucas Harari’s graphic novel, “The Unknown” delves into the story of David Zimmerman, a photographer who wakes up in the body of a woman he barely knows. The film unravels a complex narrative as the characters navigate their shared predicament.
**Julián**
An animated film inspired