Inside the Action: Yeo Yann Yann Talks HAVOC, Gun Training, and Global Fame
Malaysian actress Yeo Yann Yann hardly needs an introduction, but it’s worth repeating: she’s a two-time Golden Horse Award winner—dubbed the Oscars of Chinese cinema—and an International Emmy Awards “Best Actress” nomination for her gripping performance in Invisible Stories.
With a career that spans from deeply intimate drama to international action thrillers, Yeo Yann Yann now steps boldly onto the global stage in HAVOC, the Netflix action film directed by Gareth Evans. She stars alongside an all-star cast that includes Tom Hardy, Forest Whitaker, and Timothy Olyphant.
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Yeo Yann Yann’s presence in HAVOC is neither decorative nor incidental. She pulses through the narrative like a heartbeat, anchoring a story steeped in corruption, darkness, and redemption with raw humanity. In doing so, she remains not only in the spotlight but at the center of a film that redefines what action stories can feel like.
We had the opportunity to sit down with the acclaimed actress, who spoke candidly about the whirlwind of being part of such a high-stakes production, the physical intensity of firearms training, and the emotional journey that shaped her character—a grieving mother pushed to the edge.
HAVOC marks an exciting new chapter in your international career. What was it like to be part of such a large-scale action production?
It’s truly an exciting chapter for me as an actor. The professionalism and scope of this production were eye-opening.
You share the screen with talents like Tom Hardy, Forest Whitaker, and Timothy Olyphant. What did it mean to work alongside such globally renowned actors, and what did you take away from that experience?
It was an honor to share the screen with these amazing artists. It’s such a joy to share a vulnerable moment in a scene with Forest Whitaker. Amidst all the action, there are soft and tender moments.
HAVOC is a gritty thriller, packed with action and a dark storyline. How did you prepare—both physically and emotionally—for a role that’s equally intense and layered?
I came from the angle of a painful mother who has lost her child. The tragedy made her make these extreme choices. As a mother myself, I can totally empathize with this role. Also, I had expert gun training on set, which stimulated my imagination that she could’ve been a killer when younger.
With the film’s release just around the corner, how are you handling the anticipation of being part of a Netflix blockbuster that gives you global visibility?
It’s a real privilege to have the opportunity to be in this production. I feel very humbled to present my work to the global audience.
You’ve received major awards and were even nominated for an International Emmy. Is there anything you still dream of doing or a particular role you’d love to take on?
I hope that one day I will have the chance to land a role to portray a real-life historical figure.
Are there any upcoming projects—film or TV—you’re excited about and can share with us?
I am currently filming a new film in Singapore, which is directed by Anthony Chen. Can’t wait for audiences to see this one as well!
Connect with Yeo Yann Yann on Instagram
Photographer: Chuan Looi
Stylist: Colin Sim
Makeup Artist: KF Bong
Hair Stylist: Garrie Bobs
