The Mel Gibson story trundles on. Last week, after pleading no contest, the actor was found guilty of hitting his former partner, Oksana Grigorieva, and was sentenced to three years’ probation. He must perform 16 hours of community service and will have to spend time in counselling.

“I have a good grasp of everything my attorney has discussed with me,” Mel told the judge cautiously. Meanwhile, after many delays – the reasons for which hardly need listing –

The Beaver

, Gibson’s latest film, finally premiered at South by Southwest in Austin, Texas. Jodie Foster’s film stars Mel as a man who goes barmy and begins talking to his own hand. Let’s say no more.