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Exploring Themes of Vulnerability in Hallmark’s Three Wiser Men and a Boy
On the Vancouver set of Three Wiser Men and a Boy, the holiday spirit is palpable with numerous Christmas trees and artificial snow, elements that have become synonymous with Hallmark’s romantic comedies during the winter season. In this cheerful environment, actor Paul Campbell addresses heavier themes such as mental health and the complexities of masculinity, offering a refreshing juxtaposition to the festive backdrop.
Scheduled for release on November 23, Three Wiser Men and a Boy serves as a sequel to the acclaimed Three Wise Men and a Baby, which was recognized as the most-watched cable movie of 2022. The storyline follows the Brenner brothers—Stephan (Paul Campbell), Luke (Andrew Walker), and Taylor (Tyler Hynes)—as they navigate their personal struggles while caring for a baby boy, Thomas, left in their charge by a single mother struggling to make ends meet.
Five years after the events of the first film, the narrative unfolds with an added family dynamic. The brothers support Thomas in putting on a holiday musical at his school, all while grappling with their own emotions as their mother, played by Gossip Girl’s Margaret Colin, enters a new relationship.
Hallmark films have long been associated with certain archetypes, but the Three Wise Men franchise challenges this notion by introducing more nuanced heroes. The characters are crafted to be vulnerable and flawed, departing from the typical portrayal of unapproachable, alpha male figures often found in romantic comedies.
Campbell, who shares writing credits on both films, expresses his satisfaction with the audience’s positive response to the exploration of themes like masculinity and single parenthood in the first installment. He emphasizes, “We deal with mental health, anxiety, and the feeling of inadequacy. We’re telling stories that reflect the human experience,” pointing out the film’s depth beyond the stereotypical bake-offs and festive celebrations usually associated with Hallmark movies.
The characters reflect diverse struggles: Campbell’s character as a pet therapist coping with anxiety, Walker’s firefighter character burdened by familial responsibilities since their father’s departure, and Hynes’ video game designer who finds it hard to connect with others, each portraying relatable vulnerabilities.
These character traits not only contribute to the movie’s humor but also help audiences see themselves in the storylines. “Fans find a reflection of themselves,” Campbell notes, citing the increased relatability of these characters.
Kimberley Sustad, co-writer and frequent collaborator, supports this perspective, stating, “We want to see frailty in our characters. Look at Ken from the Barbie movie; his imperfections made the story resonate,” highlighting that depth in character leads to more profound connections with viewers.
In a poignant scene from the first film, the brothers reflect on their father’s abandonment, providing a moment of vulnerability that transcends typical rom-com tropes. Hynes acknowledges the shift in portrayal, stating, “Historically, characters leaned towards the wholesome and the polished. I wanted to explore the cracks beneath that surface.”
The commitment to portraying genuine characters is evident on set, as demonstrated by a crew member remarking on how the cast has rekindled her faith in men through their performances. Walker articulates a common misconception about Hallmark productions, clarifying that preparation and an authentic portrayal are key to bringing these characters to life. “It’s not just about reading the script and showing up; you need to be ready to make a real impact,” he states.
The effort from the cast has resulted in a narrative that grounds the fantasy of Hallmark romances, making the characters and their experiences resonate more with modern audiences.
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