The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is currently ongoing, offering a diverse array of films inspired by literary works for enthusiasts to enjoy. TIFF 2026 commenced on Thursday, September 10 and will run through Sunday, September 20.
CBC Books meticulously reviewed the festival’s lineup of 293 titles and has identified several highly anticipated films that draw inspiration from literature, making them must-adds to your watch and read lists.
**YAGA**
Starring Hudson Williams and Carrie-Anne Moss, “YAGA” will premiere at TIFF 2026. The film is based on Kat Sandler’s work of the same name. Kat Sandler, a Toronto playwright, makes her directorial debut with “YAGA,” a Crave Original series. The story revolves around Carson, a local detective, and a private investigator on a mission to uncover the disappearance of Henry Park, the town’s party boy. Their investigation leads them to a university professor specializing in urban myths, revealing more secrets than solutions.
An adaptation of Sandler’s 2018 play, “YAGA” reimagines a mystical narrative inspired by the witchy character from Slavic folklore in a contemporary setting. The star-studded Canadian cast includes Hudson Williams from “Heated Rivalry” and Carrie-Anne Moss known for her role in “The Matrix” series.
**A Long Winter**
Fred Hechinger stars in the film adaptation of Colm TóibÃn’s novella, “A Long Winter.” The story unfolds in the icy Colorado mountains, following Mike, a young man grappling with his mother’s disappearance post-blizzard. Based on Colm TóibÃn’s short novel, the narrative delves into Mike’s coming-of-age journey as he navigates life alongside his distant father.
Directed by English filmmaker Andrew Haigh, known for “All of Us Strangers,” the cast features Fred Hechinger from “The White Lotus” and D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, a Toronto-born actor recognized for his role in the FX series “Reservation Dogs.”
**Ba’s Book**
Inspired by Anh Duong’s “Dear Da-Lê,” “Ba’s Book” is a documentary by Ashley Duong about her father’s experiences. Anh Duong’s memoir portrays his hardships during the Vietnam War and as a refugee during the Iranian Revolution. In “Ba’s Book,” Ashley portrays her father’s childhood stories, reflecting on their family’s migration from Vietnam to Calgary.
**Being Heumann**
Based on Judith Heumann’s memoir, “Being Heumann,” the film narrates the journey of disability rights activist Judy Heumann. Known as the “Mother of the Disability Rights Movement,” Heumann’s advocacy efforts led to significant legislative changes benefiting people with disabilities.
Directed by filmmaker Siân Heder, the film showcases Heumann’s activism, including the occupation of a federal building in San Francisco and her influence on the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
**Carrie**
A modern reimagining of Stephen King’s “Carrie,” the film brings the classic tale of the telekinetic teenager to Gen Z audiences. The story follows Carrie White, a girl facing abuse from her mother who seeks vengeance on her high school tormentors.
Directed by Mike Flanagan, known for adaptations of Stephen King’s works, including “Gerald’s Game” and “Doctor Sleep,” the film features a fresh take on this iconic horror narrative.
**Clarissa**
“Clarissa” reinterprets Virginia Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway” in a contemporary Nigerian setting. Directed by Nigerian filmmakers Arie Esiri and Chuko Esiri, the film portrays the lives of Clarissa Dalloway and her husband Richard as they prepare for a social gathering in Lagos.
As Clarissa navigates through the day, past relationships resurface, sparking discussions on political unrest, existentialism, and trauma.
These are just a few of the captivating literary-inspired films showcased at TIFF 2026, offering audiences a blend of creative storytelling and cinematic excellence.
