The stars of the latest Hallmark film, Three Wisest Men, are reflecting on how their roles have deviated from the traditional storytelling norms that have characterized the network’s productions. Actors Tyler Hynes and Paul Campbell express pride in their efforts to present more progressive narratives that resonate with modern audiences.
In an exclusive interview with Us Weekly, Paul Campbell, 46, emphasized that the appeal of Hallmark movies lies in their portrayal of the human experience. “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 stated ahead of the film’s premiere on November 15, 2023. Campbell noted that the films aim to show that life is complex and does not always fit neatly into societal expectations of family dynamics.
The Three Wisest Men trilogy, which began in 2022, stars Campbell, Hynes, and Andrew Walker as brothers who face personal challenges while navigating the responsibilities of raising a child. Their journey begins when Luke, played by Walker, brings home an abandoned baby, leading to a story that became Hallmark’s most-watched film of the year. The success of the original film led to the sequels, including Three Wiser Men and a Boy set for release in 2024, and the newest installment, Three Wisest Men.
The franchise is recognized for its innovative storytelling, such as the first film’s empathetic depiction of a struggling mother who ultimately finds love. The third installment continues this trend with storylines that reflect contemporary issues, including Hynes’ character, Taylor, who grapples with the decision to move in with his girlfriend, Caroline, without the expectation of marriage.
“We really try to humanize these characters,” Campbell remarked, highlighting the importance of portraying realistic relationships. He acknowledged that the decision to have Taylor and Caroline live together reflects a shift from traditional portrayals often seen in Hallmark films.
The commitment to authenticity is largely credited to Kimberly Sustad, 38, who co-wrote the trilogy with Campbell. Hynes noted her significant role during filming, stating, “While we were shooting and Paul was sleeping because he worked such long hours, she was fighting for these characters.” Campbell emphasized Hallmark’s openness to explore different narratives, acknowledging the network’s efforts toward diversity and inclusion in its storytelling.
“Hallmark has been really good about letting us tell that because it’s necessary to sort of diversify in the way that we tell stories and be more inclusive,” Campbell explained. He and Hynes both commended their fellow cast members for their dedication to creating relatable characters and stories that resonate with viewers.
Hynes praised Campbell’s contribution to the project, likening him to a quarterback in a football game. “He is the MVP of these movies. Without a doubt, he is the centerpiece of it all,” Hynes expressed. He highlighted Campbell’s ability to foster a collaborative environment on set, which enhances the film’s final product.
As the Three Wisest Men series concludes, both actors are optimistic about the impact their stories will have on audiences, reinforcing the idea that films can reflect the complexities of real life while still delivering entertainment. With their focus on relatable narratives and character development, Campbell and Hynes are helping to redefine Hallmark’s approach to storytelling in a way that resonates with contemporary viewers.
