The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has kicked off, offering a plethora of movie options for literature enthusiasts. Running from Thursday, Sept. 10 to Sunday, Sept. 20, TIFF 2026 showcases 293 titles, including several highly anticipated literary-inspired films.
CBC Books has curated a selection of the most awaited literary adaptations from the festival lineup. Here are some movies that you should consider adding to both your reading and watching lists:
**”YAGA”**
– **Based on:** “YAGA” by Kat Sandler
– Toronto playwright Kat Sandler ventures into directing with the premiere of the Crave Original series “YAGA.” The narrative follows a local detective, Carson, and a private investigator as they delve into the disappearance of Henry Park, a resident party boy in a remote coastal town. Their investigation leads them to a university professor specializing in urban myths, uncovering more mysteries than answers.
**”A Long Winter”**
– **Based on:** “A Long Winter” by Colm Tóibín
– Set in the cold Colorado mountains, “A Long Winter” is a period drama centered around Mike, a young man grappling with his mother’s disappearance after a blizzard. Adapted from Colm Tóibín’s novella, the story portrays Mike’s coming-of-age journey as he navigates life alongside his distant father.
**”Ba’s Book”**
– **Inspired by:** “Dear Da-Lê” by Anh Duong
– Anh Duong’s memoir “Dear Da-Lê” serves as the inspiration for “Ba’s Book,” a documentary by Ashley Duong that delves into her father’s experiences as a Vietnamese refugee. The film reconstructs her father’s childhood tales, tracing their family’s migration from Vietnam to Calgary.
**”Being Heumann”**
– **Based on:** “Being Heumann” by Judith Heumann with Kristen Joiner
– “Being Heumann” chronicles the story of disability rights activist Judy Heumann, showcasing her journey from childhood paralysis due to polio to her pivotal role in advocating for disability rights legislation. The film adaptation, directed by Siân Heder, delves into Heumann’s impactful activism that led to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
**”Carrie”**
– **Based on:** “Carrie” by Stephen King
– “Carrie” revisits Stephen King’s iconic tale of the telekinetic teenager for a new generation, exploring themes of revenge and adolescence. Director Mike Flanagan offers a fresh perspective on the classic horror narrative, catering to contemporary audiences.
**”Clarissa”**
– **Based on:** “Mrs. Dalloway” by Virginia Woolf
– “Clarissa” reimagines Virginia Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway” in modern-day Nigeria, portraying the life of Clarissa Dalloway as she prepares for a social gathering in Lagos. The film explores themes of memory, relationships, and societal issues against the backdrop of a vibrant urban setting.
These are just a few of the captivating literary adaptations featured at TIFF 2026, offering audiences a diverse range of stories to explore.