A trailer for one of James Van Der Beek’s final roles has been released in the week following his death at 48.
Mason Gooding, Algee Smith and Keith Powers play a trio of college students in The Gates, who discover Van Der Beek’s character committed a murder in a gated community amid a vacation.
“[Derek, Kevin and Tyon are on a] road trip gone wrong, as the three young men take an ill-advised shortcut through a remote gated community, where they find themselves trapped behind the walls after witnessing a murder,” a logline reads. “Over the course of the night, they find themselves blamed, hunted and fractured by their own differing belief systems, while the perpetrator emerges as the cunning patriarch that holds the entire community under his influence.”
Van Der Beek portrays a sinister pastor named Jacob in the upcoming film.
“I have been called upon to lead this community,” he says in the trailer. “Those boys seek to destroy us.”
Van Der Beek later adds, “Outside these gates, I’m a god.”
The Gates is one of Van Der Beek’s final onscreen roles. The actor died on February 11 following a nearly three-year battle with stage III colorectal cancer.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith and grace,” a statement shared via Van Der Beek’s Instagram read. “There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother and friend
James is survived by his wife of almost 16 years, Kimberly Van Der Beek, and their six children. Friends of the Dawson’s Creek alum have since set up a fundraising campaign to help support their family in the wake of James’ death.
“Throughout his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges but also significant financial strain as they did everything possible to support James and provide for his care,” a GoFundMe description read. “In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future. The costs of James’s medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds. They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time.”
The statement added, “Your generosity will help cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children’s education. Every donation, no matter the size, will help Kimberly and her family find hope and security as they rebuild their lives.”
The fundraiser has since raised over $2.6 million for Kimberly, 44, and her children.
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for showing up for James and his beautiful family,” a Thursday, February 12, update on GoFundMe said. “Your kindness has meant more than we can put into words. In the middle of deep grief, your support has been a light. It reminds us that love is real, that community is strong and that James’s spirit continues to bring people together.”
The Gates premieres in theaters Friday, March 13.
