The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is currently ongoing, presenting a diverse array of films catered to book enthusiasts. TIFF 2026 kicked off on Thursday, September 10, and will run until Sunday, September 20.
CBC Books has meticulously reviewed the festival’s lineup of 293 films, spotlighting some of the most eagerly awaited literary-inspired movies that are worth adding to both your reading and watching lists.
**YAGA**
“YAGA,” based on Kat Sandler’s work of the same name, is a Crave Original series marking Toronto playwright Kat Sandler’s directorial debut. The story revolves around Carson, a local detective in a coastal town, and a private investigator as they try to solve the disappearance of Henry Park, the town’s party boy. As they delve deeper, they uncover more secrets than answers, involving a university professor specializing in urban myths.
**A Long Winter**
Derived from Colm Tóibín’s novella “A Long Winter,” this period drama is set in the icy mountains of Colorado. The narrative follows Mike, a young man grappling with his mother’s disappearance during a blizzard. Living with his distant father, Mike undergoes a coming-of-age journey amidst the prolonged absence of his mother.
**Ba’s Book**
Inspired by Anh Duong’s memoir “Dear Da-Lê,” “Ba’s Book” is a documentary by Ashley Duong recounting her father’s experiences during the Vietnam War and as a refugee. The film retraces her family’s migration from Vietnam to Calgary, capturing her father’s childhood tales and their resettlement in Canada.
**Being Heumann**
“Being Heumann,” based on Judith Heumann’s memoir, portrays the activism of disability rights pioneer Judy Heumann. From her struggles with polio as a child to her advocacy as an adult, the film chronicles her journey leading up to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
**Carrie**
The reimagined adaptation of Stephen King’s “Carrie” for Gen Z audiences explores the telekinetic teen’s vengeance against her tormentors. With Mike Flanagan at the helm, this series is the latest addition to his repertoire of King adaptations, showcasing his expertise in the horror genre.
**Clarissa**
“Clarissa,” a contemporary take on Virginia Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway,” is set in Lagos, Nigeria, where Clarissa and her husband prepare for a social gathering. The film delves into themes of political strife and existentialism as the characters navigate personal and societal complexities.
**Edward Said: Between Worlds**
A documentary on the life of Palestinian American scholar Edward Said, “Edward Said: Between Worlds” delves into Said’s impact on postcolonial studies through his seminal works “Orientalism” and “The Question of Palestine.”
**How We Stand**
Based on Marie Clements’ play “Tombs of the Vanishing Indian,” “How We Stand” narrates the story of three sisters separated under the Native American Relocation Program. Through shared trauma and humor, the sisters find connection and resilience despite their disparate lives.
**Tangles**
Adapted from Sarah Leavitt’s graphic memoir, “Tangles” portrays a daughter’s journey as she becomes her mother’s caretaker after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. The story balances comedy and compassion as it explores the complexities of caregiving and family dynamics.
**Phoolan**
“Phoolan” chronicles the life of Phoolan Devi, India’s Bandit Queen, who overcame adversity to become a Member of Parliament. The film captures a thrilling account of Devi’s defiance against armed forces during a 48-hour siege in India.
**Look Back**
“Hirokazu Kore-eda directs the live-action adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto’s “Look Back,” tracing the journey of two aspiring manga artists. The film follows their growth and artistic rivalry over the years, set against the backdrop of their shared dreams and ambitions.
**The Idiot(s)**
Based on Andrew D. Kaufman’s “The Gambler Wife,” “The Idiot(s)” offers a glimpse into Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s life through the eyes of his wife, Anna. The film delves into Anna’s concerns for Fyodor’s well-being as he grapples with health issues and a gambling addiction.
**The Smell of Apples**
Set in apartheid-era South Africa, “The Smell of Apples” follows Marnus, a young boy who confronts the harsh realities of racial oppression. Directed by John Trengrove, the film captures Marnus’ awakening to the injustices surrounding him.
**The Unknown**
Adapted from Lucas Harari and Arthur Harari’s graphic novel “The Case of David Zimmerman,” “The Unknown” tells the story of a photographer who wakes up in a different body after a night of revelry. The film explores