In the latter's new $1.2 million Chinese New Year movie Ah Long Pte Ltd, she plays a tough big sister who tries to restructure a loanshark business.

Fann says only Neo is brave enough to offer her roles that subvert popular public perceptions of her.

Co-star Mark Lee plays an effeminate dance instructor, a change from his usual portrayals of ah beng types.

The movie will open in Singapore and Malaysia during the Chinese New Year.

Read the full story in Life! in Friday's edition of The Straits Times.