Judi Dench’s Career: From ‘The Third Secret’ to ‘Allelujah’

Dame Judi Dench is one of the most respected actors in the world. With a career spanning several decades, she has graced the stage, television, and the big screen with her incredible talent. Her work is celebrated for its depth, emotion, and the commanding presence she brings to every character. From her early film roles to her iconic portrayal of ‘M’ in the James Bond series, Dench has built a legacy of powerful performances that have captivated audiences globally.

This listicle explores the vast and varied filmography of Judi Dench, highlighting her journey from a young actress to a cinematic legend. The selections showcase her remarkable range, moving from historical dramas to contemporary thrillers and heartfelt comedies. Each role demonstrates her ability to inhabit a character completely, making every performance a memorable one. Join us as we journey through the career of an actress who continues to be a formidable force in the world of cinema.

‘The Third Secret’ (1964)

In this psychological thriller, a respected psychoanalyst is found dead, and his daughter refuses to believe it was a suicide. She seeks help from one of his former patients, a television interviewer, to uncover the truth. Together, they delve into the lives of the analyst’s other patients to find clues. Judi Dench plays Miss Humphries, one of the secretary-receptionists for the psychoanalyst.

The film explores themes of mystery and the human psyche, with a suspenseful plot that keeps the audience guessing. While Dench’s role is a supporting one, it marks an early appearance in her film career, showcasing her talent even in smaller parts. The movie itself is a notable British thriller from its era.

‘Four in the Morning’ (1965)

This British drama follows two separate but interconnected stories that unfold in London over the course of one night and into the early morning. One story involves a young couple dealing with the strains of their relationship and a new baby. The other follows the discovery of a young woman’s body in the River Thames and the subsequent investigation. Judi Dench plays the wife in the young couple’s storyline.

The film received praise for its atmospheric direction and emotional depth, winning the Golden Leopard at the Locarno International Film Festival. Dench’s performance as the tired and frustrated young wife was noted for its realism and intensity, capturing the complexities of her character’s situation. It was a significant early role that highlighted her dramatic capabilities.

‘A Study in Terror’ (1965)

This thriller brings the fictional detective Sherlock Holmes into the real-life mystery of Jack the Ripper. Holmes and his trusted companion, Dr. Watson, navigate the dangerous streets of Whitechapel in 1888 to unmask the notorious killer. The film blends the classic detective story with the grim reality of the historical murders, creating a suspenseful and atmospheric tale.

Judi Dench appears in the supporting role of Sally, a relative of one of the Ripper’s victims who gets entangled in the investigation. Her performance adds an element of vulnerability and fear to the dark narrative. The film was praised for its clever crossover concept and its engaging mystery, becoming a memorable entry in the Sherlock Holmes cinematic universe.

‘He Who Rides a Tiger’ (1965)

The story centers on a cat burglar who, after being released from prison, attempts to reconnect with his daughter and lead a straight life. However, the allure of his old ways and the need for money pull him back into the world of crime. He finds himself planning one last major heist while trying to maintain his relationship with his daughter, who is unaware of his criminal activities.

Judi Dench plays Joanne, a character who becomes involved with the protagonist. Her role is crucial to the emotional core of the film, representing a chance at a different life for the main character. The movie is a compelling crime drama that explores themes of redemption and the difficulty of escaping one’s past.

‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ (1968)

This film adaptation of William Shakespeare’s famous play brings the magical and romantic comedy to the screen. The story follows four young lovers who find themselves in an enchanted forest, where fairies meddle with their affections. Meanwhile, a group of amateur actors rehearses a play, only to be caught up in the magical mischief.

Judi Dench portrays Titania, the Queen of the Fairies, a powerful and graceful character who falls under a spell that makes her fall in love with a man who has been given the head of a donkey. Dench’s performance was praised for its regal and ethereal quality, capturing both the authority and the comedic absurdity of her situation. The film is known for its strong cast and its faithful yet cinematic interpretation of the beloved play.

‘Luther’ (1974)

Based on the play by John Osborne, this film dramatizes the life of Martin Luther, the 16th-century German monk who challenged the Catholic Church and sparked the Protestant Reformation. The story follows his personal and spiritual struggles, from his early days as a monk to his public defiance of papal authority.

Judi Dench plays Katherine, a former nun who marries Martin Luther. Her role provides insight into the personal life of the religious reformer and adds a human dimension to the historical drama. The film is a powerful character study, focusing on the internal conflicts and unwavering conviction of its central figure.

‘Dead Cert’ (1974)

This British thriller is set in the world of horse racing. When a steeplechase jockey dies during a race, his friend, another rider, becomes convinced that it was not an accident. His investigation uncovers a dangerous web of corruption and foul play within the racing community, putting his own life at risk as he gets closer to the truth.

Judi Dench portrays Laura Davidson, a key character connected to the unfolding mystery. Her performance adds depth and intrigue to the suspenseful plot. The film is known for its exciting racing sequences and its gritty, realistic portrayal of the sport’s darker side.

‘Wetherby’ (1985)

The film centers on a schoolteacher named Jean Travers, whose life is thrown into turmoil after a mysterious young man invites himself to her dinner party and then commits suicide in her home the next day. The event forces Jean and her friends to confront the hidden emotions, secrets, and frustrations in their own lives. The narrative moves between the past and present to explore the reasons behind the man’s desperate act.

Judi Dench plays Marcia Pilborough, one of the friends in Jean’s social circle. Her character contributes to the film’s exploration of middle-class repression and unspoken feelings. ‘Wetherby’ was highly praised for its intelligent script and compelling performances, winning the Golden Bear at the 35th Berlin International Film Festival.

‘A Room with a View’ (1985)

Set in the Edwardian era, this romantic drama follows a young Englishwoman named Lucy Honeychurch as she vacations in Italy. She finds herself torn between the conventional expectations of her society, represented by her stuffy fiancé, and the passionate, free-spirited man she meets abroad. The film is a beautiful adaptation of E.M. Forster’s novel, exploring themes of love, social convention, and personal awakening.

Judi Dench plays Eleanor Lavish, a quirky and eccentric novelist who is also staying at the same pension in Florence as Lucy. For her lively and memorable performance, Dench won the BAFTA Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. The film itself was a major critical and commercial success, winning three Academy Awards.

’84 Charing Cross Road’ (1987)

This heartwarming film is based on the real-life correspondence between Helene Hanff, a writer in New York City, and Frank Doel, a bookseller in London. Spanning 20 years, their relationship develops through their shared love of literature, as they exchange letters about books, their lives, and the world around them.

Judi Dench portrays Nora Doel, the wife of the London bookseller. Her character provides a glimpse into the domestic life of Frank and adds a poignant layer to the story. The film is celebrated for its charm, wit, and touching portrayal of a long-distance friendship built on a mutual passion for books.

‘A Handful of Dust’ (1988)

Based on the novel by Evelyn Waugh, this drama examines the decay of the British upper class in the 1930s. The story follows Tony Last, a country squire whose idyllic life falls apart when his wife has an affair and demands a divorce. His subsequent journey takes him from the drawing rooms of English society to the jungles of South America in a tragic search for a lost city.

Judi Dench plays Mrs. Beaver, a shrewd and opportunistic London interior decorator who profits from the changing tastes and marital troubles of the wealthy. Her character is a small but significant part of the film’s sharp social satire. The movie was praised for its faithful adaptation of the novel and its strong performances.

‘Henry V’ (1989)

This film is a gritty and realistic adaptation of William Shakespeare’s play about the young King of England who leads his army into war with France in the 15th century. The movie portrays the brutal realities of medieval warfare while also exploring themes of leadership, courage, and national identity.

Judi Dench plays Mistress Quickly, the hostess of a tavern in London frequented by some of the king’s soldiers. She delivers a moving speech describing the death of a beloved character, providing a poignant, human moment away from the battlefield. The film, directed by and starring Kenneth Branagh, was a critical success, acclaimed for making Shakespeare accessible and visceral for modern audiences.

‘Jack & Sarah’ (1995)

This British romantic comedy centers on a man who is devastated after his wife dies in childbirth, leaving him to care for their newborn daughter. Overwhelmed with grief, he struggles to cope with fatherhood until he hires a young and inexperienced American waitress to be his nanny. A bond develops between them as they raise the baby together.

Judi Dench plays Margaret, the mother of the protagonist’s late wife and the baby’s grandmother. She provides support and guidance to her son-in-law during a difficult time. The film is a charming and heartfelt story that explores themes of loss, love, and the challenges of parenthood.

‘GoldenEye’ (1995)

This film marks a new era for the James Bond series, with Pierce Brosnan taking on the role of the iconic spy. Bond must stop a criminal syndicate from using a powerful satellite weapon called GoldenEye to cause a global financial meltdown. His mission takes him from Monaco to Russia as he confronts a former ally turned enemy.

Judi Dench makes her first appearance as ‘M’, the head of the Secret Intelligence Service. Her portrayal reimagined the character as a strong and assertive woman, famously referring to Bond as a “sexist, misogynist dinosaur.” This debut was highly praised and established her as a formidable presence in the franchise for years to come.

‘Hamlet’ (1996)

This is a full-text film adaptation of William Shakespeare’s famous tragedy, directed by and starring Kenneth Branagh. The story follows the Prince of Denmark, who seeks to avenge his father’s murder at the hands of his uncle, the new king. The film is known for its lavish production and for presenting the entire four-hour play.

Judi Dench appears in the role of Hecuba, the Queen of Troy. She is featured in a scene where the First Player delivers a dramatic speech about the Trojan War, imagining Hecuba’s grief. Although a brief appearance, it is a powerful moment within the larger narrative of the film.

‘Mrs Brown’ (1997)

The film tells the true story of the close relationship between the grieving Queen Victoria and John Brown, a Scottish servant, following the death of her husband, Prince Albert. As Brown’s influence over the Queen grows, it causes a scandal within the royal court and the government, who fear he is overstepping his bounds.

Judi Dench’s portrayal of Queen Victoria earned her widespread acclaim, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress and an Academy Award nomination. Her performance was praised for its emotional depth, capturing the monarch’s profound grief and her complex connection with Brown. The role revitalized her film career and brought her international stardom.

‘Tomorrow Never Dies’ (1997)

In her second outing as ‘M’, Judi Dench oversees James Bond’s mission to prevent a media mogul from engineering a war between the United Kingdom and China. The villain plans to use the conflict to boost ratings for his media empire. Bond teams up with a Chinese agent to stop the plot and avert a global catastrophe.

Dench continues to portray ‘M’ with authority and intelligence, guiding the operation and occasionally clashing with other government officials. Her character is central to the film’s plot, as she is the one who sends Bond into the field and makes the tough decisions from headquarters. The film was a box office success, continuing the popularity of the new era of Bond.

‘Shakespeare in Love’ (1998)

This romantic comedy imagines a love affair for William Shakespeare while he is suffering from writer’s block during the creation of ‘Romeo and Juliet’. He falls for a wealthy merchant’s daughter who dreams of becoming an actress, a profession forbidden to women at the time. Their romance inspires him to write one of his greatest tragedies.

Judi Dench plays Queen Elizabeth I, who serves as a patron of the arts and a sharp-witted observer of the events unfolding. Despite having only about eight minutes of screen time, Dench’s powerful performance earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. The film itself was a huge success, winning a total of seven Oscars, including Best Picture.

‘Tea with Mussolini’ (1999)

The film is a semi-autobiographical story about a young Italian boy who is raised by a community of British and American expatriate women in Florence before and during World War II. These women, nicknamed the “Scorpioni,” teach him about art, literature, and life, but their world is turned upside down by the rise of fascism.

Judi Dench plays Arabella, a vibrant and art-loving member of the Scorpioni. Her character is one of the key figures in the young boy’s upbringing. The film is a charming and moving tribute to the women who shaped the director Franco Zeffirelli’s early life.

‘The World Is Not Enough’ (1999)

James Bond is assigned to protect the daughter of an oil tycoon after her father is assassinated. The mission uncovers a plot by a notorious terrorist who cannot feel pain, who plans to destroy an oil pipeline and trigger a global energy crisis. Bond must race against time to stop the villain’s destructive plan.

Judi Dench returns as ‘M’, and her role is more integral to the plot in this installment. A personal connection between ‘M’ and the family at the center of the conflict complicates the mission. Dench’s performance shows a more personal and vulnerable side of the character, adding new layers to her portrayal.

‘Chocolat’ (2000)

A mysterious woman and her daughter arrive in a conservative French village and open a chocolate shop during Lent. Her delicious creations begin to awaken the hidden desires and emotions of the townspeople, much to the dismay of the village’s devout and rigid mayor. The film is a charming story about temptation, tolerance, and the joy of life.

Judi Dench plays Armande Voizin, a grumpy and independent older woman who is estranged from her daughter. She forms a special bond with the chocolate shop owner. For her performance, Dench was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, adding another acclaimed role to her filmography.

‘Iris’ (2001)

This biographical film chronicles the lifelong romance between novelist Iris Murdoch and her husband, John Bayley. The story shifts between their early years as vibrant students at Oxford and their later years, as Iris struggles with the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s disease. The film is a moving portrait of love, memory, and loss.

Judi Dench portrays the older Iris Murdoch, capturing her descent into the fog of dementia with a powerful and heart-wrenching performance. For this role, Dench received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The film was praised for its sensitive handling of a difficult subject and for the brilliant performances of its cast.

‘The Shipping News’ (2001)

After his estranged wife dies, a man moves to his ancestral home in a small Newfoundland fishing town with his young daughter to start a new life. He gets a job as a reporter for the local newspaper and slowly becomes part of the quirky and close-knit community, all while confronting his family’s dark secrets.

Judi Dench plays Agnis Hamm, the protagonist’s aunt, who convinces him to move to Newfoundland. Her character is tough and resilient, with a deep connection to the land and its history. Dench’s performance was praised, and she earned a BAFTA Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role.

‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ (2002)

This is a film adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s classic comedic play. Two young men in late Victorian England use the same pseudonym, Ernest, to escape their social obligations and pursue romance. Their deceptions lead to a series of hilarious misunderstandings and complications when their worlds collide.

Judi Dench portrays the formidable and hilariously uptight Lady Bracknell, one of the most iconic characters in British theatre. Her delivery of the character’s famous lines, including the shocked utterance of “A handbag?”, was widely praised. The film is a lighthearted and witty celebration of Wilde’s brilliant social satire.

‘Die Another Day’ (2002)

This film marked the 20th James Bond adventure and the final appearance of Pierce Brosnan as the spy. After being captured and tortured in North Korea, Bond is released in a prisoner exchange but is suspected of leaking information. To clear his name, he goes on a rogue mission to unmask a traitor and stop a villain who wields a satellite weapon powered by diamonds.

Judi Dench reprises her role as ‘M’, who is forced to revoke Bond’s ’00’ status due to the security breach. Her character demonstrates her tough leadership as she deals with the fallout from Bond’s capture and his subsequent unsanctioned mission. The film was a commercial success, celebrating the 40th anniversary of the franchise.

‘Home on the Range’ (2004)

This animated Disney film follows three determined dairy cows who team up to save their beloved farm from foreclosure. To do this, they decide to capture a notorious cattle rustler and use the reward money to pay off the farm’s debt. Their adventure takes them across the Old West as they track the wily outlaw.

Judi Dench provides the voice for Mrs. Caloway, a proper and dignified British cow who is one of the three main characters. Her voice work brings a sense of order and sophistication to the trio of bovine heroines. The film is a fun and lighthearted musical comedy for the whole family.

‘The Chronicles of Riddick’ (2004)

This science fiction action film is a sequel to ‘Pitch Black’ and follows the anti-hero Riddick, a wanted fugitive with the ability to see in the dark. He finds himself caught in the middle of a war between a death-worshiping empire called the Necromongers and the various worlds they seek to conquer.

Judi Dench plays Aereon, an ethereal and wise Air Elemental who serves as an ambassador for her race. She recognizes Riddick as a potential savior who could fulfill a prophecy and defeat the Necromongers. Dench’s presence added a touch of classical acting gravitas to the epic sci-fi world.

‘Ladies in Lavender’ (2004)

Set in a small coastal village in Cornwall in the 1930s, the story follows two elderly sisters whose quiet lives are interrupted when they discover a young man washed ashore after a shipwreck. They nurse him back to health and find their lives transformed by his presence, as they both develop feelings for him.

Judi Dench plays Ursula Widdington, one of the sisters. Her character is the more gentle and romantic of the two, and she becomes deeply attached to the mysterious young man. The film is a charming and poignant tale of companionship, music, and unspoken emotions, with Dench and co-star Maggie Smith receiving praise for their wonderful chemistry.

‘Pride & Prejudice’ (2005)

This adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel tells the story of the five Bennet sisters, whose mother is desperate to see them marry well. The headstrong and intelligent Elizabeth Bennet clashes with the proud and wealthy Mr. Darcy, leading to a famous and beloved story of love, class, and social conventions in Georgian England.

Judi Dench portrays the imposing and aristocratic Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Mr. Darcy’s aunt, who tries to interfere with his romantic life. Dench’s performance is powerful and intimidating, perfectly capturing the character’s haughty and domineering nature. For this role, she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

‘Mrs. Henderson Presents’ (2005)

Based on a true story, this film follows an eccentric widow in London who buys a theatre in the 1930s. To compete with other theatres, she and her manager decide to stage a revue featuring live nude performers, a scandalous idea at the time. They must navigate censorship and public opinion to keep their show running, especially during the difficult years of World War II.

Judi Dench stars as Laura Henderson, the determined and unconventional theatre owner. Her spirited and witty performance earned her critical acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The film is a charming and inspiring story about artistic freedom and resilience.

‘Doogal’ (2006)

This animated children’s film is about a group of animal friends who embark on a quest to save the world from an evil sorcerer who wants to freeze the sun. The team must find three magic diamonds before the villain does, leading them on an adventure filled with challenges and colorful characters.

Judi Dench serves as the narrator of the film, guiding the audience through the story with her warm and distinguished voice. Her narration provides the framework for the whimsical and fast-paced adventure. The movie is a vibrant and energetic tale for young viewers.

‘Casino Royale’ (2006)

This film reboots the James Bond series, introducing Daniel Craig as the new 007. The story follows Bond on his first mission as a double-0 agent, as he is tasked with bankrupting a terrorist financier in a high-stakes poker game in Montenegro. It explores the character’s early, more reckless days and shows how he evolved into the suave spy.

Judi Dench reprises her role as ‘M’, becoming the only cast member from the previous Bond era to carry over. Her relationship with this new, grittier Bond is more maternal and contentious, as she struggles to control her impulsive agent. The film was a massive critical and commercial success, praised for its realistic tone and intense action.

‘Notes on a Scandal’ (2006)

A lonely and controlling history teacher at a London school befriends a new, younger art teacher. When she discovers that her new friend is having an affair with a 15-year-old student, she uses the secret to manipulate and control her. The film is a tense psychological thriller that explores obsession, loneliness, and betrayal.

Judi Dench plays Barbara Covett, the manipulative older teacher. Her chilling and complex performance as the unreliable narrator earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The film was lauded for its powerful acting and suspenseful script.

‘Quantum of Solace’ (2008)

Picking up immediately where ‘Casino Royale’ left off, this James Bond film follows the agent on a mission of revenge. His investigation into the organization that blackmailed his former love leads him to a wealthy businessman who is plotting to orchestrate a coup in a Latin American country to seize control of its water supply.

Judi Dench returns as ‘M’, who is concerned about Bond’s personal vendetta and its impact on his judgment. She acts as both his superior and a concerned guardian, trying to keep him focused on the mission while dealing with threats from within her own agency. The film is noted for its fast-paced action and its direct continuation of the previous Bond story.

‘Rage’ (2009)

Shot in a unique style, this film consists of a series of interviews conducted by a student filmmaker on his mobile phone. The story unfolds as a cast of characters from the New York fashion world react to a mysterious accident on a catwalk. Each interview reveals another piece of a larger story about the dark side of the industry.

Judi Dench plays Mona Carvell, a sharp-tongued and critical fashion journalist who provides commentary on the events. Her performance is delivered directly to the camera, in keeping with the film’s experimental format. The movie offers a satirical and critical look at the world of high fashion.

‘Nine’ (2009)

This musical is about a famous Italian film director who is struggling with a creative crisis as he prepares for his next movie. He reflects on his relationships with the many women who have influenced his life and career, including his wife, his mistress, his muse, and his mother.

Judi Dench plays Lilli, the costume designer and confidante to the director. She performs a memorable musical number, “Folies Bergères,” which celebrates the glamour and spectacle of show business. The film is a lavish and star-studded homage to the world of 1960s Italian cinema.

‘Jane Eyre’ (2011)

This adaptation of Charlotte Brontë’s classic novel tells the story of a young governess who falls in love with her brooding and mysterious employer, Mr. Rochester. However, she discovers a terrible secret hidden within his grand estate, which threatens to destroy their happiness.

Judi Dench portrays Mrs. Fairfax, the kind and gentle housekeeper of Thornfield Hall, where Jane works. Her character serves as a source of comfort and information for Jane as she navigates her new and unsettling environment. The film was praised for its gothic atmosphere and strong performances.

‘My Week with Marilyn’ (2011)

This film recounts the experiences of a young production assistant, Colin Clark, during the filming of ‘The Prince and the Showgirl’ in England. He spends a week with the legendary Marilyn Monroe, getting a glimpse into her vulnerability and the immense pressures she faced, especially her difficult working relationship with director and co-star Laurence Olivier.

Judi Dench plays Dame Sybil Thorndike, a celebrated British actress who also stars in the film-within-the-film. Her character is warm, professional, and empathetic towards Monroe, offering a contrast to the tension on set. For her compassionate and dignified performance, Dench received a BAFTA nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

‘J. Edgar’ (2011)

This biographical drama, directed by Clint Eastwood, chronicles the life and career of J. Edgar Hoover, the powerful and controversial first director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The film explores his public and private life, including his efforts to fight crime, his use of secret files to maintain power, and his close relationship with his associate Clyde Tolson.

Judi Dench plays Annie Hoover, J. Edgar’s domineering and influential mother. Her character is shown to have a profound impact on her son’s life and ambition. Dench’s performance captures the stern and controlling nature of the woman who shaped one of the most powerful men in American history.

‘The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’ (2012)

A group of British retirees decides to move to a newly restored hotel in India, advertised as a luxurious and affordable place to spend their golden years. When they arrive, they find the hotel is not quite what was promised, but they soon find their lives enriched by their new surroundings and their shared experiences.

Judi Dench plays Evelyn Greenslade, a recently widowed woman who is venturing out on her own for the first time. Her character’s journey of self-discovery and adaptation is a central part of the film’s story. The movie was a commercial and critical success, praised for its charming story and wonderful cast.

‘Skyfall’ (2012)

In this James Bond film, the entire MI6 organization comes under attack, and ‘M’s past comes back to haunt her. When a list of undercover agents is leaked, Bond must go into the shadows to track down and destroy the threat, no matter how personal the cost. The mission tests his loyalty to ‘M’ as secrets from her past are revealed.

Judi Dench’s role as ‘M’ is more central to the plot than ever before. The film delves into her character’s history and forces her out from behind the desk and into the field. Her powerful and emotional performance was widely acclaimed, and the film became one of the most successful and beloved entries in the entire Bond franchise.

‘Philomena’ (2013)

Based on a true story, the film follows an Irish woman who spent decades searching for the son she was forced to give up for adoption as a teenager in a convent. She is aided in her search by a cynical journalist who, initially seeing it as a human-interest story, becomes deeply invested in her quest.

Judi Dench stars as Philomena Lee, delivering a performance that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. She perfectly captures the character’s unwavering faith and quiet determination. Dench received numerous accolades for her role, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

‘The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’ (2015)

This sequel follows the lives of the British retirees as they continue to navigate life and love in India. The owner of the hotel has dreams of expanding his business with a second property and must impress an inspector from a potential investor. Meanwhile, the residents deal with new personal and romantic challenges.

Judi Dench reprises her role as Evelyn Greenslade, whose storyline involves her developing career as a fabric buyer and her budding romance with one of the other residents. The film continues the charming and heartfelt tone of the original, further exploring the idea that it’s never too late for a new beginning.

‘Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children’ (2016)

Based on the popular novel, this fantasy film follows a teenage boy who discovers a hidden orphanage for children with extraordinary abilities. He learns that he must protect his new friends from powerful, monstrous enemies known as Hollows. The film is a visually imaginative adventure directed by Tim Burton.

Judi Dench plays Miss Esmeralda Avocet, the headmistress of another home for peculiar children. Her character is a powerful figure who can manipulate time and shape-shift into a bird. Dench’s role is crucial in the battle against the film’s villains.

‘Tulip Fever’ (2017)

Set in 17th-century Amsterdam during the height of “tulip mania,” this romantic drama follows a married woman who begins a passionate affair with the artist hired to paint her portrait. To escape her husband and build a future together, the lovers decide to risk everything by investing in the volatile tulip bulb market.

Judi Dench portrays the Abbess of St. Ursula, the head of a local convent. Her character becomes involved in the central plot through her dealings in the tulip trade. The film is a lavish period piece that explores themes of love, desire, and risk.

‘Victoria & Abdul’ (2017)

This film revisits the later years of Queen Victoria’s reign and tells the true story of her unlikely friendship with a young Indian clerk named Abdul Karim. As their bond deepens, it causes friction within the royal household and government, but the Queen stands by her new teacher and confidant.

Judi Dench returns to the role of Queen Victoria, twenty years after ‘Mrs Brown’. Her performance was once again highly praised for its wit, warmth, and emotional depth, earning her nominations for a Golden Globe and a Screen Actors Guild Award. The film offers a fascinating look at a little-known chapter in royal history.

‘Murder on the Orient Express’ (2017)

In this stylish adaptation of Agatha Christie’s famous mystery novel, the world’s greatest detective, Hercule Poirot, finds himself investigating a murder that has taken place on the luxurious train he is traveling on. With the train stranded by snow, he must identify the killer from among the eclectic group of passengers.

Judi Dench plays Princess Natalia Dragomiroff, a wealthy and imposing Russian noblewoman who is one of the main suspects. Her character is sharp-tongued and aristocratic, and Dench brings a commanding presence to the role. The film is a classic whodunit with a large ensemble cast of famous actors.

‘Red Joan’ (2018)

Inspired by a true story, this film centers on an elderly woman living a quiet life in retirement who is suddenly arrested and revealed to be one of the most significant spies in British history. The story flashes back to her younger days as a university student, showing how she was recruited by the KGB and leaked nuclear secrets during the Cold War.

Judi Dench portrays the older version of the main character, Joan Stanley. Her performance captures the complexity of a woman forced to confront her past and justify the momentous decisions she made decades earlier. The film is a compelling spy drama that explores morality and ideology.

‘All Is True’ (2018)

This film offers a speculative look at the final years of William Shakespeare’s life after he retires from London and returns to his family in Stratford-upon-Avon. He must confront his troubled relationships with his wife and daughters and come to terms with the death of his only son, Hamnet, years earlier.

Judi Dench plays Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare’s wife. The film gives a voice to a historical figure who is often overlooked, portraying her as a strong and complex woman with her own grief and resentments. Dench’s performance provides a powerful emotional anchor to the story of the famous playwright’s final chapter.

‘Cats’ (2019)

This is a film adaptation of the famous stage musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber. The story follows a tribe of cats called the Jellicles who, over the course of one night, must decide which one of them will ascend to a new life. The movie uses extensive visual effects to transform its human actors into feline characters.

Judi Dench portrays Old Deuteronomy, the wise and respected elder of the Jellicle tribe. In a change from the stage version where the character is usually male, Dench’s portrayal brings a matriarchal presence to the role. She performs the iconic song “The Ad-Dressing of Cats” at the end of the film.

‘Artemis Fowl’ (2020)

Based on the popular young adult novel, this fantasy adventure film introduces a 12-year-old genius from a long line of criminal masterminds. He finds himself in a battle of strength and cunning against a hidden world of powerful fairies who may be connected to his father’s disappearance.

Judi Dench plays Commander Julius Root, the tough, gravelly-voiced leader of the fairy police force. Her casting in the traditionally male role was a notable aspect of the production. The film is a fast-paced action story filled with magic and high-tech gadgets.

‘Blithe Spirit’ (2020)

This is a modern adaptation of Noël Coward’s classic comic play. A crime novelist suffering from writer’s block invites an eccentric medium to his home to conduct a séance. The plan backfires when she accidentally summons the ghost of his fiery first wife, leading to a complicated and hilarious love triangle with his current wife.

Judi Dench plays Madame Arcati, the flamboyant and clumsy medium. Her comedic performance is a highlight of the film, as she brings the quirky and memorable character to life. The movie is a lighthearted and stylish romp.

‘Six Minutes to Midnight’ (2020)

Set in the summer of 1939, this thriller takes place at a finishing school on the English coast where the daughters of high-ranking Nazi officials are being taught. A new teacher arrives just as the former teacher is found dead, and he soon uncovers a sinister plot, forcing him to go on the run as war with Germany looms.

Judi Dench plays Miss Rocholl, the headmistress of the school. Her character is a patriotic Englishwoman who is initially unaware of the dangerous activities happening under her nose. The film is a tense spy drama based on real historical events.

‘Off the Rails’ (2021)

Three women in their 50s recreate an inter-railing trip from their youth to fulfill the dying wish of their best friend. They take her teenage daughter with them, and the journey across Europe becomes a chaotic and emotional adventure of self-discovery, as they confront old rivalries and new challenges.

Judi Dench appears as Diana, the mother of the deceased friend. In a key scene, she sets the plot in motion by giving the main characters the train tickets for their journey. The film is a heartfelt story about friendship, loss, and living life to the fullest.

‘Belfast’ (2021)

This semi-autobiographical film, written and directed by Kenneth Branagh, is a coming-of-age story set in Northern Ireland during the late 1960s. Told from the perspective of a young boy, it follows his childhood and his family’s experience amidst the growing conflict known as The Troubles.

Judi Dench plays Granny, the witty and wise grandmother of the central character. Her touching performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. The film was widely praised by critics, winning the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.

‘Allelujah’ (2022)

The film is set in a geriatric ward in a small Yorkshire hospital that is threatened with closure. The story follows the dedicated staff and the elderly patients as they fight to save the hospital, preparing for a visit from a television crew that they hope will highlight their cause. The movie celebrates the spirit of the elderly and the importance of compassionate care.

Judi Dench plays Mary, a former librarian who is one of the patients in the hospital. Her character is quiet and observant, providing a gentle presence amidst the unfolding drama. The film is an adaptation of a play by Alan Bennett and offers both humorous and poignant moments.

Which Judi Dench film from her long and impressive career stands out as your absolute favorite?