The stars of the upcoming film, Three Wisest Men, are openly discussing how their roles in the Hallmark franchise have enabled them to challenge traditional storytelling norms. Actors Tyler Hynes and Paul Campbell are proud of their contributions to a narrative that reflects more progressive themes relevant to contemporary audiences. The film is set to premiere on November 15, 2023, and promises to deliver a story that resonates with modern family dynamics.
In an exclusive interview with Us Weekly, Campbell noted that many viewers return to Hallmark films not just for entertainment, but because they resonate with the complexities of real life. “The reason that people keep coming back to these movies… is because they do reflect the human experience,” he explained. “We’ve sort of taken the gloss off of it and the polish, and we go, ‘Actually, life is messy and it’s imperfect.’”
The Three Wisest Men trilogy began in 2022, featuring Campbell, Hynes, and Andrew Walker as brothers navigating personal challenges alongside the responsibility of raising a child. The first installment became Hallmark’s most-watched film of the year, leading to the sequels, including the recently released Three Wiser Men and a Boy in 2024, and the latest film that brings the trilogy to a close.
This franchise is notable for its willingness to explore deeper themes. The original film found empathy for a struggling mother and included a romantic arc that defied typical Hallmark conventions. The third installment continues this trend, with Hynes’ character, Taylor, facing the decision of whether to cohabit with his girlfriend, Caroline, a scenario not traditionally depicted in Hallmark narratives.
“We really try to humanize these characters,” Campbell stated, emphasizing the importance of depicting realistic relationships. “Not everybody waits until they’re married to move in; that’s not accurate.” Hynes added that it was Sustad, who co-wrote the films, who championed the need for a more authentic portrayal of modern relationships. “It’s because of Kim that any of this stuff that we’re talking about happened,” he remarked.
Hallmark has been recognized for its strides in promoting diversity and inclusion. According to Campbell, the network has been supportive of the Three Wisest Men franchise’s efforts to push storytelling boundaries. “Hallmark has been really great about letting us tell that because it’s necessary to sort of diversify in the way that we tell stories,” he said, acknowledging that not every viewer may embrace these new storylines.
Both Hynes and Campbell credited their cast for creating an environment that fosters creativity. Hynes praised Campbell’s role in shaping the narrative and ensuring it remains engaging. “He is the MVP of these movies… He takes on the burden of building the world and evolving these characters,” Hynes noted.
The collaborative spirit on set has contributed to the film’s unique quality, allowing for spontaneous adjustments that enhance the storytelling. Hynes likened Campbell’s leadership to that of a quarterback, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in crafting a successful film.
As the premiere date approaches, fans of Hallmark and contemporary storytelling alike are eager to see how Three Wisest Men will continue to break from tradition while maintaining the charm that has characterized the franchise. This evolution in storytelling not only entertains but also sparks conversations about the complexities of modern family life, making it a timely addition to the Hallmark catalog.
