Question 1

What is a Moxa treatment, as referenced in the film?

Accepted Answer

A Moxa treatment involves burning an herb called moxa (mugwort) on or above the skin. Though it was meant to enhance circulation and lymphatic flow, recipients disliked the burning sensation. The scent of moxa was believed to have a soothing effect to counteract skin irritation.

Question 2

What are the long thin pipes with tiny bowls seen throughout the film?

Accepted Answer

They are Kiseru, introduced into high society (Buddhist priests, wealthy merchants, samurai) as status symbols. They were the primary way to smoke tobacco before cigarettes became popular in the mid-1800s, and characters knock them upside-down to empty the burnt tobacco.

Question 3

What is the Japanese chess game played in the film?

Accepted Answer

The game is Shogi, similar to Western chess. Pieces are tiles with kanji denoting rank (kings, horses, dragons, soldiers). The board is 9x9, and captured pieces revert to the capturing player's side. The goal is to checkmate the opponent's king.

Question 4

Which film inspired A Story of Floating Weeds?

Accepted Answer

It was inspired by the film The Barker (1928), directed by George Fitzmaurice.

Question 5

Which festival featured this film in 2003?

Accepted Answer

The film was featured at the New York Film Festival in 2003.

A Story of Floating Weeds

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