London, Feb 22 (DPA) Iraq war drama “The Hurt Locker” swept to success at the British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs) Sunday in London with director Kathryn Bigelow also winning the best director award.

Bigelow beat out competition from ex-husband James Cameron, whose sci-fi blockbuster “Avatar” had also been nominated in both categories.

But the surprise of the evening’s award ceremony at London’s Royal Opera House was provided by rising British star Carey Mulligan, who won the best actress award for her role in “An Education”.

Briton Colin Firth won the best actor award for his part in “A Single Man”.