Captivating is the only word to describe Keira Knightley’s 2005 performance in “Pride & Prejudice.” By the time the first chords of the ivory pianoforte float melodically through the room and the excited babble of new rumors comes into focus, this adaptation has already ensnared an eager audience and proves that no matter how much time passes, this clever romance will always be in demand.

Fans of Austen’s popular book will not feel disappointed. Although the story is condensed, the well-written script is true to the wit and humor Austen perfected two hundred years ago. The all-star cast will not disappoint movie or book fanatics, either.

In the movie, the proud, strong-willed Elizabeth finds herself single at the age of 20. As she dances at balls with her four sisters and watches the eldest begin the frustrating and exciting endeavor of courtship, Elizabeth finds herself with a dilemma of her own, and his name is Mr. Darcy. Through raised voices and humorous sparring, viewers experience an exciting and amusing roller-coaster ride through the turmoil of life and the truths of love.

Although the uproar abroad about the “schmaltzy” American ending caused some criticism among American critics, the only real qualm about this movie is that it ends too soon. After a pleasant dose of good humor and satirical wit, nearly everyone (even the seemingly indifferent male viewers) will exit the theater smiling and talking animatedly about this wonderful two-hour experience. To all the cast and creators of this captivating film, I repeat Mr. Darcy - “You have bewitched me, body and soul.”