"It actually was a complete departure having a woman playing M. I didn't realize at the time that it would be so noticed"

Judi Dench's quote is describing her role as M in the James Bond films. She was the first female to play the role, and she didn't realize at the time that it would be so noticed. This quote shows that Dench was amazed by the attention her casting got, as it was a total departure from the traditional casting of a male star in the role. Dench's casting was a revolutionary moment in the James Bond franchise, and it suggested the times that a female was finally given the chance to play such an iconic function. Dench's quote likewise shows that she was proud to be the first female to play M, and that she was honored to be part of such a historical moment. Her casting was a significant advance for gender equality in the film industry, and it is a testimony to her skill and decision that she was able to make such an impact.