UPDATE: Ahead of the highly anticipated premiere of Three Wisest Men on November 15, 2023, stars Paul Campbell and Tyler Hynes are breaking new ground in Hallmark films with a progressive approach to storytelling. The duo revealed their commitment to portraying the complexities of modern family life in an exclusive interview.
Campbell, 46, emphasized that the essence of their films lies in capturing the messy realities of human experience. “People keep returning to these movies because they reflect life as it is — imperfect and chaotic,” he stated. This innovative direction aims to resonate with contemporary audiences, showcasing that family dynamics do not always fit into “neat little boxes.”
The Three Wisest Men trilogy began its journey in 2022, featuring Campbell, Hynes, and Andrew Walker as brothers struggling to balance their personal lives while raising an abandoned baby. The first film quickly became Hallmark’s most-watched movie of that year, prompting a sequel, Three Wiser Men and a Boy, scheduled for release in 2024, and the current film, touted as the franchise’s final chapter.
Unlike traditional Hallmark narratives, this installment delves into modern relationships. Hynes’ character, Taylor, faces the contemporary dilemma of whether to cohabitate with his girlfriend, Caroline, without being engaged — a departure from Hallmark’s historical norms. “We strive to humanize these characters,” Campbell remarked, noting the importance of authenticity in portraying relationships.
The driving force behind this shift is co-writer Kimberly Sustad, 38, who advocated for a more genuine representation of familial and romantic dynamics. “While we were shooting, she was fighting for these characters, ensuring their stories were relatable,” Hynes shared.
Hallmark’s willingness to embrace these narratives marks a significant evolution for the network, which has faced scrutiny over its portrayal of diversity and inclusion. Campbell praised Hallmark for allowing the franchise to explore themes that challenge traditional storytelling. “They’ve been great about letting us push the envelope,” he said.
As the film gears up for its release, the stars are already looking ahead to future projects. Hynes lauded Campbell as the “MVP” of the series, highlighting his role in shaping both the characters and the overarching narrative. “He constructs the entire project while also delivering a standout performance,” Hynes stated with enthusiasm.
This innovative approach is set to captivate audiences when Three Wisest Men debuts, promising a heartwarming yet realistic portrayal of family life during the holiday season. The film not only aims to entertain but also to reflect the diverse experiences that modern families encounter.
As excitement builds for the premiere, fans eagerly await how these evolving narratives will redefine the Hallmark experience for future generations. Stay tuned for more updates as the premiere date approaches!
