The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is currently ongoing, offering a wide array of movies suitable for fans of literature. TIFF 2026 commenced on Thursday, September 10 and will run until Sunday, September 20.
CBC Books explored the festival’s lineup of 293 films and curated a selection of highly anticipated movies inspired by literary works that are worth adding to both your reading and watching lists.
**YAGA**
Starring Hudson Williams and Carrie-Anne Moss, “YAGA” is set to premiere at TIFF 2026. The movie is based on Kat Sandler’s work of the same name, marking Sandler’s directorial debut. The storyline revolves around a local detective named Carson and a private investigator who team up to solve the mysterious disappearance of party boy Henry Park in a remote coastal town. As they delve deeper into the investigation, they encounter a university professor specializing in urban myths, revealing more secrets than solutions.
An adaptation of Sandler’s 2018 play, “YAGA” transforms the witchy character from Slavic folklore into a contemporary mystical whodunnit. The star-studded Canadian cast includes Hudson Williams from “Heated Rivalry” and Carrie-Anne Moss of “The Matrix” franchise.
**A Long Winter**
Fred Hechinger stars in the film adaptation of Colm Tóibín’s novella, “A Long Winter.” The story unfolds in the chilling Colorado mountains, focusing on a young man named Mike grappling with his mother’s disappearance during a blizzard. Based on Irish writer Colm Tóibín’s short novel, the narrative follows Mike’s journey to maturity as he copes with his mother’s absence while living with his distant father.
Directed by English filmmaker Andrew Haigh, known for “All of Us Strangers,” the movie features Fred Hechinger from “The White Lotus” and D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai from the FX series “Reservation Dogs.”
**Ba’s Book**
Inspired by Anh Duong’s memoir “Dear Da-Lê,” “Ba’s Book” is a documentary by Ashley Duong that chronicles her father’s experiences as a Vietnamese refugee during the Vietnam War and the Iranian Revolution. The film retraces her father’s childhood stories, reflecting on their family’s journey from Vietnam to Calgary.
**Being Heumann**
Adapted from Judith Heumann’s memoir “Being Heumann,” the film portrays the life of disability rights activist Judy Heumann, known as the “Mother of the Disability Rights Movement.” The story follows Heumann’s advocacy journey, from being paralyzed by polio as a baby to her pivotal role in shaping the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
Directed by Siân Heder, the movie is a tribute to Heumann’s impactful activism, following her challenges and triumphs.
**Carrie**
Based on Stephen King’s novel “Carrie,” the film presents a modern retelling of the telekinetic teen’s story for Gen Z audiences. The narrative revolves around Carrie White, a sheltered girl seeking vengeance against her high school tormentors. The adaptation is helmed by Mike Flanagan, known for his previous successful King adaptations.
**Clarissa**
Reimagining Virginia Woolf’s novel “Mrs. Dalloway,” “Clarissa” transposes the tale to Nigeria, offering a fresh perspective on the original storyline. Set in Lagos, the narrative follows Clarissa Dalloway as she prepares for a social event, reflecting on past relationships and societal issues.
These are just a few of the literary-inspired films showcased at TIFF 2026, offering a diverse array of adaptations that promise engaging storytelling and visual experiences.