Cheap follow focus DIY from André Desrochers on Vimeo.
There's even another easier method for owning one. Just buy a universal lid opener from the kitchen store (if you can find one). The photos below are shown from this website.
Update (23.12.2011): Bought this universal lid opener from ACE Hardware in Midvalley. I'm sure other ACE outlets should be selling this 'tool'. I have tried using it to open the container lid. It works! Will go home and check how smooth it is with the lens.