Our Picks

5. I Want Someone to Eat Cheese With

[Movie] Jeff Garlin of "Curb Your Enthusiasm" wrote, directed and stars in this romantic comedy about a Chicago actor struggling with work, diet and relationship woes. Performing opposite Garlin is it-comedian Sarah Silverman, but the supporting players also shine. Garlin must have cashed in a lot of favors from his comedy buddies, because the cast boasts a full lineup of Second City alums as well as actors from "Little Miss Sunshine," "Strangers With Candy" and "The Simpsons."

Opens Friday. Landmark's E Street Cinema, 555 11th St. NW. $6.75-$9.50. 202-452-7672.

-- Justin Rude

Critics' Choice

PANGS OF THE MESSIAH

The shattering "Pangs of the Messiah" was such a hit for Theater J this summer that the company has brought it back for an encore. Israeli playwright Motti Lerner sets his drama in the West Bank of the near future, in which a peace accord is finally being signed and the fate of an Israeli settlement hangs in the balance. The production abounds in insight -- and searing performances.

-- Peter Marks

Through Sept. 16. D.C. Jewish Community Center, 1529 16th St. NW. $15-$50. 800-494-8497.

EDWARD HOPPER

If Edward Hopper isn't the greatest American artist before World War II, he's in the running for the title. After all, his paintings pretty much define our view of U.S. cities in the days of jazz and swing, with anomie beneath their vim. You can judge him yourself next week when the National Gallery launches its major retrospective of the painter's work.

-- Blake Gopnik

Opens Sept. 16. Through Jan 21. National Gallery of Art, East Building, Fourth Street and Constitution Avenue NW. Free. 202-737-4215.