The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) has kicked off, showcasing numerous movies inspired by books and literary figures. TIFF 2025 commenced on Thursday and will run until September 14.
CBC Books has sifted through the festival’s lineup to highlight all the literary-inspired films that should be on both your reading and watching lists.
**A Pale View of Hills**
Based on the novel by Kazuo Ishiguro, “A Pale View of Hills,” the film adaptation by Japanese director Kei Ishikawa delves into the life of Etsuko. The story spans three decades from 1950s Japan to 1980s England, exploring themes of war, migration, motherhood, and friendship.
**Bad Apples**
Starring Saoirse Ronan, “Bad Apples” is a satirical thriller directed by Jonatan Etzler. The film revolves around an elementary school teacher named Maria who grapples with a troublesome student, Danny, and questions her teaching methods and sanity.
**Frankenstein**
In Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic novel “Frankenstein,” the story follows Victor Frankenstein, played by Oscar Isaac, as he delves into the boundaries of mortality. The film was shot in Toronto and Scotland, bringing the iconic monster back to life.
**Franz**
Directed by Agnieszka Holland, “Franz” depicts the life of acclaimed writer Franz Kafka, known for his surreal works like “The Metamorphosis” and “The Trial.” The film portrays Kafka’s struggles as an insurance lawyer amidst the turmoil of World War I.
**Hamnet**
“Hamnet,” based on Maggie O’Farrell’s novel, explores the tragic story of Agnes and her son Hamnet in 1580s England. Director Chloé Zhao brings this poignant tale to life, starring Paul Mescal as Shakespeare and Jessie Buckley as Agnes.
**Hedda**
Tessa Thompson stars in “Hedda,” a modern reinterpretation of Henrik Ibsen’s play “Hedda Gabler.” Director Nia DaCosta explores the complex life of the titular character, depicting her dissatisfaction through a contemporary feminist lens.
**It Would Be Night in Caracas**
Co-directed by Mariana Rondón and Marité Ugás, “It Would Be Night in Caracas” portrays the political turmoil in Venezuela through the eyes of Adelaida. The film delves into the chaos and survival instincts amidst the country’s unrest.
**Lovely Day**
Based on Alain Farah’s novel, “Lovely Day” follows Alain and Virginie on the brink of their wedding day, offering a unique take on the traditional wedding movie narrative. Director Philippe Falardeau intertwines humor and chaos in this romantic tale.
**Nuremberg**
Adapted from Jack El-Hai’s book, “The Nazi and the Psychiatrist,” “Nuremberg” delves into the psychological exploration of senior Nazis post-World War II. Rami Malek plays Douglas Kelley, a psychiatrist unraveling the minds of war criminals like Hermann Göring, portrayed by Russell Crowe.
**Out Standing**
“Out Standing” chronicles the journey of Sandra Perron, the first female infantry officer in Canada. Director Mélanie Charbonneau sheds light on the challenges faced by women in the military, drawing inspiration from Perron’s memoir.
**Primavera**
Director Damiano Michieletto’s “Primavera” revolves around Cecilia, a talented violinist in an orphanage in 18th-century Europe. The film brings to life the encounter between Cecilia and Antonio Vivaldi, exploring themes of music and destiny.
**Scarlet**
“Scarlet,” an anime adaptation of “Hamlet” by William Shakespeare, follows a girl’s quest for vengeance in a purgatorial realm. Director Mamoru Hosoda delves into the afterlife, testing the boundaries of revenge and redemption.
**Steal Away**
Clement Virgo’s “Steal Away” is based on Karolyn Smardz Frost’s book about Cecelia Reynolds, an enslaved woman seeking refuge in Toronto. The film delves into the psychological thriller between Cecile and Fanny in a gripping narrative.
**Steve**
In Tim Mielants’ adaptation of Max Porter’s novella “Shy,” Cillian Murphy plays Steve, the head of a struggling boys’ school in the 1990s. The film delves into the challenges faced by young men in a tumultuous educational setting.
**The Captive**
Alejandro Amenábar’s “The Captive” fictionalizes the life of Miguel de Cervantes, depicting his time as a soldier in Algiers before writing “Don Quixote.” The film explores Cervantes’ resilience and humanity amidst captivity.
**The Lost Bus**
“Paul Greengrass and Brad Ingelsby’s “
