‘The Gates’ Trailer Reveals James Van Der Beek’s Final Film Role

The late James Van Der Beek has been one of the most talked-about stories in the entertainment industry in 2026 following his tragic passing on Feb. 11 at only 48 years old. Best known for his work on shows like Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues, Van Der Beek was one of the most endearing actors in the business, winning fans over with his smile, charm, and genuineness. Passing away after a two-year battle with Stage 3 colorectal cancer, the star’s death shocked the world and sent generations of fans into mourning.

Before leaving this world, Van Der Beek still had a few new projects he had filmed, giving fans a few more chances to appreciate his work at the end of his storied career. Now, one of those performances is inching closer to release, as Lionsgate has released the first trailer for its newest movie, The Gates.

Starring Mason Gooding, Algee Smith, and Keith Powers, the film highlights a trio of friends who take a shortcut through a secluded gated community and witness a murder. They find themselves trapped inside the neighborhood and accused of the murder as the residents go after them, all while the trio’s friendship begins to fracture under the pressure.

The trailer shows Van Der Beek playing an influential pastor named Jacob who rules over the residents of the gated community, hunting down the trio of protagonists in order to silence them and protect his own reputation. While the boys seek help from the residents in their quest to escape, they find themselves completely surrounded by Jacob’s followers, leaving them trapped and nearly helpless. The full trailer can be watched below:

James Van Der Beek Shines in Posthumous Villain Role

The Gates will give fans a new look into James Van Der Beek’s impressive range, as the actor was far better known for playing heartwarming heroes than villains like the one in this movie. While much of the character’s story is still being kept under wraps, this trailer teases the intensity and fear the late star will bring to the movie, exerting his power and sheer will over three young boys trying to stay out of trouble.

Even through a scarier look at Van Der Beek, this movie will add to his incredible legacy as fans continue to pay tribute to the Dawson’s Creek star after his tragic passing. Once the film is released in March, it will mark another opportunity for fans to celebrate his impressive career, which will span more than three full decades.

Over the next few weeks, The Gates‘ cast and crew will get the opportunity to discuss their work alongside Van Der Beek and give fans new insight into the actor’s performance in this movie. Considering this is his first posthumous release, it is sure to be an emotional affair, especially considering how many heartfelt and deep messages offering condolences have gone public in the days since his death.

Van Der Beek’s newest movie should only help to enhance his already outstanding legacy, showing off his skills as an actor in what may be one of the most terrifying roles he has played. Particularly considering the tragic circumstances of his death, The Gates‘ release should help bring countless fans together to celebrate his work, which will continue to live on after his passing.

The Gates will be released in theaters on Mar. 13, 2026.