When you hear the name Owen Kline, it might not ring a bell at first, but once you dig a little deeper, you'll realize this is someone worth paying attention to. Unlike the more famous Owens like Owen Wilson, Owen Kline is carving out his own path in the film industry, and he’s doing it in a way that’s refreshingly different. He's not just an actor or a director — he’s a storyteller with a distinct voice, and he’s already making waves with his bold debut film, “Funny Pages.”

Owen Kline’s journey into the spotlight started early. Born in New York City on October 14, 1991, he appeared in Noah Baumbach’s “The Squid and the Whale” back in 2005. But instead of following the typical Hollywood route, Kline chose a more underground, independent path. Fast forward to 2022, and he’s not just in front of the camera anymore — he’s behind it, directing a film that’s as raw and real as it gets.

So, what makes Owen Kline stand out in an industry full of big names and blockbuster budgets? It’s his authenticity. From comic books to feature films, Kline has always had a love for storytelling that’s unpolished and honest. His work feels like a breath of fresh air in a world that’s often too polished and predictable. Whether you're into indie films, comic books, or just love a good underdog story, Owen Kline is someone you should definitely know about.

• Tamara Zagoranski

Table of Contents

• Biography of Owen Kline
• Personal Life and Background
• Career Highlights and Notable Works
• Owen Kline’s “Funny Pages” – A Bold Directorial Debut
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Biography of Owen Kline

Owen Joseph Kline is an American filmmaker, screenwriter, and actor. He was born on October 14, 1991, in New York City. While he first gained attention as a child actor, particularly in Noah Baumbach’s “The Squid and the Whale,” Kline has since taken a different route, choosing to focus more on writing and directing rather than pursuing mainstream acting roles.

His creative journey didn’t stop at acting — he’s been making comic books, fanzines, and small joke books since high school. This passion for independent storytelling eventually led him to write and direct his first feature film, “Funny Pages,” released in 2022. The film received critical acclaim and showcased Kline’s unique voice in modern cinema.

Personal Life and Background

Coming from a creative family, Owen Kline was naturally drawn to the arts. His father, Kevin Kline, is a well-known actor, and his mother, Phoebe Cates, is an actress and former model. Despite being the child of Hollywood stars, Owen chose a more alternative path, embracing underground culture and independent filmmaking.

• Katrina Kaif

Career Highlights and Notable Works

Before stepping behind the camera, Kline had a few acting roles, most notably in Noah Baumbach’s “The Squid and the Whale,” where he played Frank Berkman. This early exposure to indie filmmaking likely influenced his later decision to pursue directing. After his first on-screen experiences, Kline spent years exploring different creative outlets, including making comic books and short films like “Jazzy for Joe” in 2014.

“Jazzy for Joe” was a short film he co-directed, starring the late broadcasting legend Joe Franklin in a rare comedic role. This project showed Kline’s early interest in blending humor with real-life eccentricities. But it wasn’t until 2022 that he made his feature film debut with “Funny Pages,” a film that many critics described as bold, raw, and deeply personal.

What sets Owen Kline apart is his refusal to follow a traditional Hollywood path. Instead, he’s embraced a more DIY, independent filmmaking style, which gives his work a distinct, almost nostalgic feel. He’s not afraid to push boundaries or explore uncomfortable themes, which is something that resonates with modern audiences looking for something different.

Owen Kline’s “Funny Pages” – A Bold Directorial Debut

“Funny Pages” is more than just a movie — it’s a statement. Written and directed by Owen Kline, the film tells the story of a teenage aspiring cartoonist who, after the death of his mentor, decides to leave his comfortable upper-middle-class life behind and live on his own. The film explores themes of adolescence, creativity, and the often messy journey of growing up.

What makes “Funny Pages” stand out is its unapologetic authenticity. The film doesn’t shy away from awkward situations or uncomfortable truths, which makes it feel more like a real slice of life than a typical coming-of-age story. Kline’s background in comic books and fanzines is evident in the film’s aesthetic and humor, giving it a unique visual and narrative style.

Many critics praised the film for its fresh take on youth culture and its refusal to sanitize the teenage experience. Unlike many mainstream films, “Funny Pages” doesn’t offer easy answers or neat resolutions — and that’s exactly what makes it so compelling.

According to an interview with Indiewire, Kline talked about how he wanted to escape the expectations that come with being from a famous family. Instead of chasing fame, he chose to create something truly underground and personal. That honesty is what makes “Funny Pages” so special — it’s not just a movie; it’s a reflection of Kline’s own journey through life and art.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Owen Kline related to Owen Wilson?

No, Owen Kline is not related to Owen Wilson. While both are actors and filmmakers, they come from different backgrounds and have followed separate paths in the entertainment industry. Owen Kline is the son of actor Kevin Kline and actress Phoebe Cates, while Owen Wilson is known for his work in Hollywood comedies and collaborations with director Wes Anderson.

What is Owen Kline known for?

Owen Kline is best known for his feature film directorial debut, “Funny Pages” (2022), where he also served as writer and producer. He first gained attention as a child actor in Noah Baumbach’s “The Squid and the Whale” (2005). In addition to his film work, Kline has a passion for comic books and has been creating fanzines and small publications since high school.

What is Owen Kline’s latest project?

As of now, Owen Kline’s most recent project is his debut film, “Funny Pages,” which premiered in 2022. The film received critical acclaim for its raw storytelling and unique perspective. While there’s no official announcement about his next film, fans are eager to see what Kline will do next, given the success and originality of his first feature.

Learn more about Owen Kline’s creative journey on our site, and check out insights into indie filmmaking for more behind-the-scenes perspectives.

For more in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes details, you can check out IndieWire, where Kline shared his thoughts on making “Funny Pages” and stepping into the director’s chair for the first time.