James Van Der Beek delivers a chilling performance as Pastor Jacob in the upcoming film ‘The Gates,’ according to the newly released trailer. The actor, who died on Feb. 11 at age 47 after a nearly three-year fight with stage III colorectal cancer, plays the cunning patriarch of a remote gated community.

Mason Gooding, Algee Smith and Keith Powers portray college friends Derek, Kevin and Tyon on a road trip that turns deadly. The trio takes a shortcut through the isolated enclave and stumbles upon a murder, the logline states. Trapped behind the gates, they face blame, pursuit and their own clashing beliefs as the killer tightens his grip on the residents.

“I have been called upon to lead this community,” Van Der Beek’s character declares in the trailer. “Those boys seek to destroy us.” He later boasts, “Outside these gates, I’m a god.” The footage highlights the escalating tension through the night, with the students hunted amid the community’s dark secrets.

Van Der Beek’s portrayal marks one of his final onscreen appearances. A family statement posted to his Instagram on Feb. 11 announced his passing. “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith and grace,” it read. The message asked for privacy during their grief, promising more details on his wishes in time.

The family also launched a GoFundMe to cover medical bills and living expenses after exhausting their savings on his care. “Throughout his illness, the family faced not only emotional challenges but also significant financial strain,” the campaign description stated. Donations would help wife Kimberly, 44, and their children stay in their home, pay bills and continue schooling amid the loss.

By Thursday, Feb. 12, the fundraiser surpassed $2.6 million. “Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for showing up for James and his beautiful family,” an update read. “Your kindness has meant more than we can put into words. In the middle of deep grief, your support has been a light.”

Van Der Beek rose to fame as Dawson Leery in the 1990s teen drama ‘Dawson’s Creek.’ His career spanned films like ‘Varsity Blues’ and TV roles in ‘CSI: Cyber’ and ‘Mercy.’ Tributes poured in after his death, celebrating his talent and resilience.

No release date for ‘The Gates’ has been announced. The trailer, which runs just over two minutes, builds suspense with shadowy visuals and a pulsing score, drawing early praise from fans online for Van Der Beek’s commanding presence.