I currently use ViewLevel 2.1.0 from http://blog.firetree.net/2005/08/25/viewlevel-20/ and WP 2.0.2 (though I also did have it running on 1.5.2). I am not sure I 100% understand you, but if you want to prevent pages from being displayed to someone with a viewlevel less than you specify, it is possible.
Unfortunately, I don't believe the vl=1 method works for pages. Instead, under the "Write Page" screen for the post that you want to protect/prevent unauthorized viewing:
1) Scroll down to "Custom Fields" (hit the + to expand it if need be).
2) Under "Add a New Custom Field," type viewlevel in the key box, and your desired viewlevel (i.e. 1,2,3,etc.) into the value box.
3) Press "Add Custom Field" button.
That's it. Hope that helps.