Before Katie Holmes became Mrs. Tom Cruise, and before Michelle Williams made such acclaimed movies as "Brokeback Mountain," they played residents of picturesque Capeside in this 1998-2003 series that boosted attention to what then was The WB Network.

James Van Der Beek has the title role as aspiring filmmaker Dawson, whose life also involves ne'er-do-well pal Pacey ( Joshua Jackson) and many others who pass in and out of the New England town.

Kevin Williamson created the show, whose theme song is Paula Cole's "I Don't Want to Wait." DVD extras: deleted scenes; interview with Williamson; trivia game; music CD. *** (Not rated: AS, P)

Buy 'Dawson's Creek' on DVD.