Stars of ‘Three Wisest Men’ Discuss Breaking Hallmark Norms

The stars of the upcoming film Three Wisest Men, Paul Campbell and Tyler Hynes, shared insights about how the film challenges traditional Hallmark storytelling. They emphasized the importance of representing modern family dynamics in a more authentic way. The film is set to premiere on November 15, 2023.

Campbell, who co-wrote the film with fellow Hallmark star Kimberly Sustad, expressed pride in their approach. “The reason that people keep coming back to these movies — largely as much as they’re fun — is because they do reflect the human experience,” he said. He highlighted how the film moves away from the “polished” narratives typical of Hallmark productions, opting instead for a depiction of life that is messy and imperfect.

In the Three Wisest Men trilogy, which began in 2022, Campbell, Hynes, and Andrew Walker portray the Brenner brothers as they navigate complicated family situations, including unexpected parenthood. The original film became Hallmark’s most-watched movie of the year, leading to a sequel, Three Wiser Men and a Boy, set for release in 2024, and the current film, which marks the trilogy’s conclusion.

The characters in these films do not conform to idealized representations. Rather, they face real-life challenges while striving for growth and connection. “These characters are not living perfectly, but they’re doing their best,” Campbell noted, adding that this relatability is a key reason audiences resonate with their stories.

The narratives in the franchise reflect contemporary issues, such as the relationship between Taylor, played by Hynes, and his girlfriend, Caroline. Their decision to live together despite not being engaged or married deviates from the traditional Hallmark formula. Campbell explained, “Not everybody waits until they’re married to move in, that’s not accurate.”

Hynes credited Sustad for her commitment to ensuring that the characters’ experiences were authentic. “While we were shooting and Paul was sleeping because he worked such long hours, she was fighting for these characters,” he said. This collaborative effort has led to a richer portrayal of family life and romance.

Both actors praised Hallmark for its willingness to embrace diverse storytelling. Campbell remarked, “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 acknowledged that not every viewer might appreciate the changes, but emphasized the importance of pushing boundaries to create more inclusive narratives.

In discussing the production process, Hynes highlighted Campbell’s role in crafting the films. “He is the MVP of these movies,” Hynes stated. “He takes on the burden of building the world and evolving these characters.” This collaborative spirit on set fosters an environment where creativity can thrive, ultimately enhancing the viewing experience.

As the franchise develops, Campbell and Hynes remain focused on telling stories that resonate on a human level, making Three Wisest Men a significant entry in Hallmark’s evolving catalog. Their commitment to authenticity promises to connect with audiences seeking more relatable portrayals in holiday films.

With the premiere approaching, viewers can anticipate not only heartwarming moments but also a narrative that reflects the complexities of modern life, challenging conventional norms in the process.