She’s similarly commanding as M inJames Bond.
With this in mind, this list looks at some of Dench’s strongest projects.
Her dynamic with Hoskins is also fun and sharply written.
Image via Eon
Dench delivers a poignant performance here asQueen Victoria, depicting her deep mourning followingPrince Albert’s death.
It works because the lead characters come across as real.
The stars have tremendous chemistry, and it’s a treat to watch them on screen together.
Image via The Weinstein Company
Dench plays the part with subtlety and grace, earning an Oscar nod for her efforts.
Upon arrival, they discover it is far from luxurious but find themselves embarking on life-changing adventures.
Dench has top billing as Evelyn Greenslade, a recently widowed woman seeking a fresh start.
While limited in scope, the screenplay is tender and, at times, surprisingly deep.
The cinematography is also sumptuous and vivid, really bringing the Indian backdrop to life.
Yes, by God, I do know about that."
Dench won an Oscar for her brief but impactful appearance as Queen Elizabeth I in this fictionalized period piece.
(It was actually the second-shortest Oscar-winning performance ever, clocking in at 5 minutes and 52 seconds).
The film juxtaposes Murdoch’s past and present, creating a hard-hitting and emotional character study.
The movie is unabashedly crowd-pleasing and feel-good, which is sometimes exactly what one needs.
DirectorLasse Hallstromimbues the movie with magical realism, making it feel almost like a fairy tale.
Otherwise, the rest of the world would have no pubs."
Dench’s performance is understated yet affecting, helping to ground the film.
She’s lovely without being sentimental.
Barbara becomes obsessed with her younger colleague, Sheba Hart (Cate Blanchett).
They’re both tremendous in different ways, and their battle of wits becomes delectably dark.
The movie is smart and suspenseful, delving into twisted psychological terrain while remaining briskly paced and engaging.
It clocks in at a lean 91 minutes, using every scene for maximum dramatic effect.
2’Philomena' (2013)
“These nuns, they made me sign a paper.
I signed it, but it wasnt my choice.
They said I had committed a sin.”
Dench and Coogan are wonderful on screen together.
1’Casino Royale' (2006)
Directed by Martin Campbell
“Any thug can kill.
I want you to take your ego out of the equation and judge the situation dispassionately.”
Image via Fox Searchlight Pictures
Claiming the top spot on this list isCasino Royale, the first Bond film to pair Dench withDaniel Craig.
NEXT:10 Essential Biopics, Ranked
Image via Miramax Films
Image via Miramax Films
Image via Focus Features
Image via Searchlight Pictures
Image via EON Productions.
