MANILA, Philippines - Hong kong singer-actress Charlie Yeung has arrived on Hollywood’s doorstep via the latest Nicolas Cage action flick, “Bangkok Dangerous,” directed by the acclaimed Pang Brothers.

“Bangkok Dangerous,” was no. 1 at the US box office last weekend, but Yeung is the first to downplay her impending global stardom. She told Inquirer Entertainment in an exclusive phone interview that working with Cage and the Pang Brothers was more significant than fame.

In a way, Yeung is following in the footsteps of her former leading men, Andy Lau and Jackie Chan.

The multi-talented Yeung—who has starred in both art house and commercial flicks, waxed records, and wrote and took photos for two books—first made a splash in a 1994 film directed by Wong Kar-Wai, “Ashes of Time,” re-edited and screened at the Cannes this year.

What was it like working with Nicolas Cage?
When I learned that I’d be working with Nicolas, I couldn’t wait to fly to Thailand.
He’s very professional and friendly.

What was your first meeting like?
We were in a big conference room at the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok. It was the first time the entire cast got together for a script reading. Since most of my scenes were with him, I had to sit close to him … I couldn’t help noticing his eyes. Piercing yet charming.

What was your biggest challenge in this movie?
Playing a deaf-mute wasn’t that difficult. More challenging was learning Thai dancing. Professionals are likely to have started at age 3 or 4, and practiced every day. I took a crash course, practiced five hours a day for a month.

Did you see the original “Bangkok Dangerous” (1999)?
It was directed by the Pang Brothers as well. I watched the original only after we shot this movie; our version is very different.

What was it like working with Danny and Oxide Pang?
It was fun. They have a unique style. It was a relaxed set. There was no pressure at all. Best of all, we never worked overtime!

The Pang Brothers are twins, but we never saw them together on the set. Nicolas and I would always guess which one would arrive.

What was it like working with Wong Kar-Wai?
I was only 17 or 18 at the time. He was a good teacher and gave his actors complete freedom in interpreting the script.

What was it like working with Andy Lau?
He’s like Superman. He sings. He acts. He directs. I worked with him in “All About Love” (2005).

What was it like working with Jackie Chan?
He’s a boss and big brother to everyone. He always made sure that we had good food on the set (“New Police Story,” 2004).

What’s your take on the Asian invasion of Hollywood?
Interaction is always good—especially between the East and the West. A movie is mainly for entertainment, but it can help people understand different cultures.

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