The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is currently ongoing, featuring a diverse array of movies inspired by literature. TIFF 2026 commenced on September 10 and will run until September 20.
CBC Books has sifted through the festival’s lineup of 293 titles to spotlight some of the most eagerly awaited films that draw inspiration from literary works, enticing audiences to both read the books and watch the movies.
**YAGA**
**Based on:** *YAGA* by Kat Sandler
Renowned Toronto playwright and showrunner Kat Sandler steps into the director’s chair for the debut episode of the Crave Original series, *YAGA*. The narrative unfolds in a secluded coastal town, following local detective Carson and a private investigator as they probe the disappearance of Henry Park, the town’s resident party enthusiast. Their investigation leads them to a university professor specializing in urban myths, unearthing a web of secrets and enigmas.
An adaptation of Sandler’s 2018 play, *YAGA* reimagines the mystical character from Slavic folklore into a contemporary whodunit. The stellar Canadian cast of the 2026 series includes Hudson Williams from *Heated Rivalry* and Carrie-Anne Moss of *The Matrix* fame.
**A Long Winter**
**Based on:** *A Long Winter* by Colm Tóibín
Set against the icy backdrop of the Colorado mountains, *A Long Winter* delves into a period drama centered around Mike, a young man grappling with his mother’s disappearance following a blizzard. Adapted from Irish writer Colm Tóibín’s novella, the story follows Mike’s coming-of-age journey as he navigates life alongside his distant father.
English filmmaker Andrew Haigh, acclaimed for directing *All of Us Strangers* in 2023, helms the film, featuring Fred Hechinger from *The White Lotus* and Toronto-born actor D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai of FX’s *Reservation Dogs*.
**Ba’s Book**
**Inspired by:** *Dear Da-Lê* by Anh Duong
Anh Duong’s 2024 memoir, *Dear Da-Lê*, chronicles his experiences during the Vietnam War and as a refugee in Canada, narrated through a series of heartfelt letters penned to his daughter. In a reverse creative endeavor, his daughter, Ashley Duong, pays tribute to her father’s narrative through the documentary film *Ba’s Book*, reconstructing his childhood tales and the family’s journey from Vietnam to Calgary.
**Being Heumann**
**Based on:** *Being Heumann* by Judith Heumann with Kristen Joiner
Celebrating the legacy of disability rights activist Judy Heumann, known as the “Mother of the Disability Rights Movement,” the film *Being Heumann* brings to life her memoir, portraying her journey from a polio-stricken child to a trailblazing advocate. Directed by Siân Heder, who won an Academy Award for *CODA* in 2021, the film captures Heumann’s pivotal role in shaping the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
**Carrie**
**Based on:** *Carrie* by Stephen King
In a contemporary retelling of Stephen King’s iconic novel, *Carrie*, the telekinetic teen’s tale is reimagined for a Gen Z audience. The narrative follows Carrie White, a young girl tormented by her abusive mother and high school bullies, as she unleashes a fiery vendetta. Directed by Mike Flanagan, known for his King adaptations, including *Gerald’s Game* and *Doctor Sleep*, the film stars Summer H. Howell in the titular role.