Every James Van Der Beek Movie And Show You Forgot Exists—ranked And Explained

Let's be honest, who doesn't have a soft spot for James Van Der Beek? From his iconic Dawson's Creek days to his surprisingly hilarious turn in Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23, JVD B has a way of embedding himself in our pop culture memories. But with a career spanning decades, it's easy for some of his projects to slip through the cracks. That's where we come in! This ranking isn't just a trip down memory lane; it's a fun excavation of hidden gems, forgotten roles, and maybe even a few that were best left in the past. Think of it as your ultimate JVD B cheat sheet, a way to impress your friends at your next trivia night, or simply to revisit the actor we all secretly love to watch, no matter the genre.

The purpose here is simple: to celebrate the full spectrum of James Van Der Beek's on-screen work. We're not just looking for the blockbusters or the critically acclaimed hits (though we'll touch on those too!). We're diving deep into the shows and movies that might have flown under your radar. The benefits? Beyond sheer entertainment value, it's a chance to appreciate an actor's versatility and see how he's evolved over time. Plus, who knows? You might just discover your new favorite JVD B project. So grab your metaphorical Pacey-whitter and let's get ranking!

The JVD B Vault: Ranked and Explained

This is where the fun really begins! We’ve sifted through the archives, consulted our memories (and a few Wikipedia rabbit holes), and emerged with a ranked list of James Van Der Beek's movies and shows, from the absolutely unforgettable to the… well, the memorable in their own way. Each entry comes with a brief explanation, so you’ll know exactly what you’re getting into, or what you might have missed.

1. Dawson's Creek (1998-2006)

Let's start with the undisputed king. Pacey Witter. The sensitive, witty, often angst-ridden soul at the heart of this teen drama phenomenon. If you don't know this one, you're probably living under a rock (a very well-kept rock). Dawson's Creek launched JVD B into superstardom and gave us countless iconic moments, from the boat-naming scene to his complicated relationships. It’s the benchmark against which all other JVD B roles are measured.

2. Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23 (2012-2013)

This one is a hilarious curveball. James Van Der Beek plays a fictionalized, ego-driven version of himself, and it is pure gold. The show's meta-humor and JVD B's commitment to playing a slightly delusional, self-absorbed actor made it an instant cult favorite. If you only know him from Dawson's, this show will completely redefine your perception of his comedic timing.

James Van Der Beek Loves His Dawson's Creek Ugly Cry Face

3. Varsity Blues (1999)

Before he was contemplating life on Capeside, JVD B was Lance Harbor, the star quarterback whose life takes a dramatic turn. This football drama, with its controversial themes and memorable "whipped cream bikini" scene (yes, really), showcased a grittier side of the young actor. It's a quintessential late-90s teen movie that holds up surprisingly well.

4. What If... (2010)

A romantic dramedy that explores the concept of "what if" in relationships. JVD B plays a man who, after a breakup, grapples with the roads not taken. It’s a more mature role that delves into themes of regret and second chances. While not a blockbuster, it’s a solid performance that shows his range beyond teenage melodrama.

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5. The Rules of Attraction (2002)

Based on Bret Easton Ellis's novel, this dark comedy follows a group of college students. JVD B plays Sean Bateman, the brother of Christian Bale's character from American Psycho. It's a wild, often disturbing ride that’s a stark contrast to the earnestness of Dawson's Creek. A cult classic for those who like their college dramas with a side of depravity.

6. Friend Request (2016)

A horror film where a popular college student's life unravels after she unfriends a mysterious girl online. JVD B plays a professor, a more supporting role, but the film itself is a decent, if somewhat formulaic, modern horror flick that explores the darker side of social media. Might be one you’ve forgotten, but it’s a good example of him branching into different genres.

James Van Der Beek 1999

7. Carson City: A Novel (2004) (TV Movie)

This is a bit of a deeper cut. JVD B plays a character in a historical drama/western. It’s a less flashy role, but it’s important to see how he was experimenting with different types of storytelling even in his earlier years. Don't expect high drama, but it's a neat piece of his filmography to unearth.

8. The Mourning After (2005) (Short Film)

While short films are often overlooked, they can be crucial for an actor’s development. JVD B stars in this drama, and while it’s not widely available, its existence shows his willingness to explore diverse projects. Think of it as a bonus track on his discography – a little something for the true fans.

There you have it! A journey through the many faces of James Van Der Beek. From the iconic to the obscure, he's given us plenty to remember (and maybe a few to politely forget). Which one is your favorite? Did we miss any essential JVD B moments? Let us know!