Queen Elizabeth gives Dench Companion of Honor award

Judi Dench, who won an Oscar for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth I in 1998's "Shakespeare in Love," is now a Companion of Honor.

She received the honor from Queen Elizabeth II during a ceremony Wednesday at Buckingham Palace. The honor recognizes service of national importance and is limited to a select group of 65 people at any one time.

Dench played 007's boss M in several James Bond movies and was Queen Victoria in "Mrs. Brown." Her screen credits also include roles in "Chocolat," "Iris," "Tea With Mussolini" and "The Shipping News."

The 70-year-old actress was made a Dame of the British Empire in 1988.