​A former soldier who swapped the military for the movies is about to hit the big time at the Sundance Film Festival.

Martin Spitts’ short film, Family Jewels, has been selected to be shown at the international event alongside projects by big names such as Spike Jonze and James Franco.

After he reached the rank of captain in the British Army, serving in Northern Ireland and Kosovo, Martin decided to pursue his lifelong passion for writing films.

He said: “I have always loved exploring and had a keen interest in photojournalism, which just developed.”

The former Cheltenham man, who went to Rendcomb College, is no stranger to the big screen and his film, What Does Your Daddy Do?, was premiered at the 2006 Venice Film Festival.

The film, which he made while studying in London, picked up a nomination for a British Independent Film Award (BIFA).

Since then Martin has spent the past two years in Los Angeles at the American Film Institute on a directing programme.

Family Jewels is the moving story of the last 24 hours a woman spends with her family before being sent to serve with the US military in Afghanistan.

Martin said: “I used to be in the British Army and served in the Royal Green Jackets and Gurkhas and it is from personal experience.

“That last night is an awkward moment for a soldier who just wants to get there and their loved ones who want them to stay.”

The 41-year-old spent two years away from his wife Julia who stayed in London.

Martin discovered Family Jewels had been selected to be aired at Sundance from more than 3,500 submissions at Christmas.

“To get selected for Sundance in the short film circuit is about as good as it gets,” he said.

Martin will fly out to Utah, where the event is held, on January 20.

He said: “I am very nervous and excited. It is an amazing opportunity.

“Sundance is not Hollywood orientated, it is about the independent films.

“I am looking forward to being with a bunch of keen and exciting film makers.”

To find out more about Family Jewels, visit www.martinstitt.com.