by Aaron Drake

Some like it rough and tough; some just are that way. Frank Turek—stunt man, car and motorcycle enthusiast, Black Belt in Tae kwon Do, sport and extreme sport fanatic, previous military man and just all-around bad boy—talks with Frontiers in L.A. about his upcoming stunt gigs, and explores his softer, more artistic side.

Location: Malibu Canyon

Hometown: Bronx, New York

Sign: Sagittarius

You are featured in Clive Barker’s new book—what was your experience like working with him?

Interesting, It sparked artistry that had been kind of dead for a while. Definitely hot. I knew who he was as a director—as a child growing up I remembered his films and I was flattered, but he made me feel extremely comfortable. His guidance and support has taken me to the next level, not only in my career but as an artist. He is an extrodinary man, with a kind and gentle heart.

Why do you love L.A.?

For so many different reasons. The main thing is the weather; we’re spoiled with the weather. So much more opportunity out here, for me at least. The people are happier in general than back East. I also like L.A. because you can go snowboarding or skiing in the snow in three hours or be in San Francisco in six. You can just go so many different places and there are so many different things to see and do. I get bored really easily.

I know you’re into sports and extreme sports. What’s your favorite extreme sport?

Mountain climbing, rock climbing.

That must have played a part in becoming a stunt man. What upcoming film did you do stunt work for?

It will be released in early 2010. It’s called Takers. It’s an interesting film—a heist/bank robbery movie.

What’s your favorite thing you have worked on?

3:10 to Yuma—I got to ride horses. I have a passion for horses, cars and bikes so it was a great film to be a part of. And the cast and crew were phenomenal.

What’s the craziest stunt you’ve ever done?

It was as a child. There was a boat launch in Long Island where I grew up, and on the side of the ramp was a 50-foot sea wall that was level with the marina parking lot. I stole a 100-foot mountain climbing rope from my father and tied it to my bike and onto a hook at the end of the wall. I created a ramp, went into the parking lot, raced toward the edge, hit the ramp and flew through the air into the water below. I managed to achieve this feat three times before marina personnel and the police stopped me.

What role did life in the military have on your work?

It shaped who I am today and gave me a sense of drive, discipline and determination; dedication to getting things done, being responsible and all the things it was supposed to do. It has carried on into my life these days.

Which do you prefer—motorcycle or car?

I prefer my motorcycle over the car, especially in L.A. traffic. Its also an expression—a lifestyle if you will—and something that makes me feel totally free. Time does not exist when I am riding.

What is your “type” and what would he drive?

Strong, assertive, creative, individual, bit of an attitude — and definitely a Porsche.

Check out Frank Turek, featured in Clive Barker’s photography exhibit Imagining Man at Bert Green Fine Art, 102 W. 5th St., L.A. through Dec. 19., book signing Dec. 12. For more info on Frank visit his website at stunts4you.com.

Photographs by Mark Sacro - marksacrophotography.com

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