The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is currently ongoing, showcasing a variety of films based on books and the works of literary icons. TIFF 2025 kicked off on Thursday and will continue until September 14.
CBC Books has reviewed the lineup and curated a list of literary-inspired titles that are worth adding to both your reading and watch lists.
“A Pale View of Hills” is a film adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel of the same name, directed by Kei Ishikawa. The story follows Etsuko, a woman reflecting on her life journey spanning from 1950s Japan to 1980s England, exploring themes of war, migration, motherhood, and friendship.
“Bad Apples” features Saoirse Ronan in a satirical thriller directed by Jonatan Etzler, based on Rasmus Andersson’s novel “De Oönskade.” The film delves into the challenges faced by an elementary school teacher dealing with a disruptive student and her own struggles.
Guillermo del Toro brings Mary Shelley’s classic tale “Frankenstein” to life in a new adaptation starring Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein, exploring themes of mortality and scientific ambition.
“Franz,” directed by Agnieszka Holland, portrays the life of writer Franz Kafka, depicting his struggles as an insurance lawyer amidst the backdrop of World War I.
In “Hamnet,” directed by Chloé Zhao, the story revolves around Agnes, her family tragedy, and the inspiration behind Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet,” with Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley in lead roles.
“Hedda,” starring Tessa Thompson, reimagines Henrik Ibsen’s play “Hedda Gabler,” shedding light on the protagonist’s dissatisfaction with societal norms.
“It Would Be Night in Caracas,” co-directed by Mariana Rondón and Marité Ugás, unveils the political turmoil in Venezuela through the eyes of a woman navigating chaos in her homeland.
“Lovely Day,” directed by Philippe Falardeau, adapts Alain Farah’s novel “Mille secrets mille dangers,” offering a unique take on wedding movies.
“Nuremberg,” directed by James Vanderbilt, explores the psychological aspects of Nazi leaders during World War II, focusing on chief psychiatrist Douglas Kelley’s study of their crimes.
“Out Standing,” based on Sandra Perron’s memoir, delves into the challenges faced by the first female infantry officer in Canada, highlighting the struggles of women in the military.
“Primavera,” inspired by Tiziano Scarpa’s novel “Stabat Mater,” follows a talented violinist’s journey in an 18th-century orphanage, intertwined with the life of composer Antonio Vivaldi.
“Scarlet,” an anime film by Mamoru Hosoda, reimagines Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” in a unique and visually captivating narrative.
“Steal Away,” directed by Clement Virgo, explores the U.S. Civil War through the eyes of Cecelia Reynolds, a woman seeking refuge in a turbulent period.
“Steve,” based on Max Porter’s novella “Shy,” delves into the challenges faced by a school head amidst student turmoil.
“The Captive” portrays a fictionalized account of Miguel de Cervantes’ life as a soldier in Algiers, shedding light on his experiences before writing “Don Quixote.”
“The Lost Bus,” adapted from Lizzie Johnson’s book, dramatizes the chaos of the Paradise wildfire, focusing on one man’s heroic efforts to save children.
“The Man in My Basement,” based on Walter Mosley’s novel, explores the mysterious relationship between a landlord and a tenant, delving into themes of identity and history.
“The Ugly,” from Yeon Sang-ho’s graphic novel, follows a young man’s quest for truth about his mother’s past, navigating moral dilemmas and personal revelations.
“Three Goodbyes,” inspired by Michela Murgia’s novel “Tre ciotole,” tells the story of a couple facing life-altering challenges in Rome.
“Train Dreams,” adapted from Denis Johnson’s novella, follows a labourer’s journey in the Pacific Northwest, exploring themes of labour exploitation and personal growth.
The Toronto International Film Festival offers a diverse lineup of literary adaptations that promise to captivate audiences with their unique storytelling and visual prowess.