James Vanderbeek Movie Shoots Vanderbeek-less Scenes in Haverford

Lower Merion Township enjoyed a dash of movie magic Monday afternoon, as the cast and crew of upcoming indie "Backwards" shot scenes inside the blacked-out windows of Haverford's Her Royal Highness for much of the day. Much to the chagrin of at least two onlookers though, the set was without its biggest star.

While former "Dawson's Creek" actor and erstwhile teen heartthrob James Vanderbeek was reportedly being driven back to his New York home by the film's producer during the shoot, a sizable contingent—along with five Budget rental vans packed with equipment—was across the street from Haverford Station throughout the day.

A sports comedy, "Backwards" was written by, and co-stars, Haverford-native Sarah Megan Thomas. In the film, Thomas plays an Olympic-alternate rower who comes home from the games and becomes romantically entangled with her boss, played by Vanderbeek.

Despite the local angle, much of the talk about the film has centered around Vanderbeek's presence in the city. He reportedly took in a Phillies game and told Philly.com he and his wife have enjoyed their stay in the area so much that they're considering buying a home in the suburbs.

"I love Philly. It's got everything you want in a big city but still feels like your hometown," he said.

"Backwards" is directed by Ben Hickernell and is being angled for a July 2012 release.