Dench in the dark over Bond plot

Rex Features

Dame Judi Dench has revealed that she has been kept in the dark over the plot of the new James Bond film.

The Oscar-winning actress plays MI6 chief M in the latest instalment in the franchise, but admitted that producers have refused to disclose the story in case it is leaked.

She said: "It's all so secretive. I've only been told that this will be an original storyline - and that's it."

Talking about her hopes for the upcoming film, she added: "I wasn't remotely surprised about the success of Casino Royale and I'm sure we can surpass that this time."

The as-yet-untitled Bond 22 is scheduled for release in 2008.

> Click here for Digital Spy's review of Casino Royale