(Cover) - EN Movies - Jodie Foster has admitted promoting The Beaver has been incredibly difficult for everyone involved.

The movie stars Mel Gibson as a man who finds he can only communicate with his family by using a beaver puppet. It was directed by Jodie Foster, who also appears in the release.

Mel was arrested for driving under the influence and making anti-Semitic remarks in 2006, and has been engulfed in legal problems this year. His ex-girlfriend accused him of attacking her and tapes of a man purported to be him using racist language were made public with the media storm largely taking place while The Beaver was shooting.

Due to his issues, Mel has shied away from much of the promotion of the picture, while Jodie has continually insisted he is a great talent who was a joy to work with. She admits the questions about the star have been tough and have taken their toll on everyone involved.

No, its incredible difficult to try to release a movie with this much controversy. Its hard on him, extremely hard on him, and its hard on us, she told interviewer Tom Brook. But this is an amazing performance and I will always be grateful for it. Not just whats on screen but the partnership.

Jodie hasnt defended Mels actions, insists the only person in a place to do so is the 55-year-old himself. She is keen for people to look past the frenzy surrounding Mel and remember he is an astounding actor.

I can go on to say I think he is one of the greatest filmmakers in America that we have. That would be a shame, to never see that voice as a director, she said. I look forward to anything that he makes whether hes the boom operator, the actor or, especially, the director. (C) Cover Media