However, film critic Kermode insisted the Rising Star award was not strictly for newcomers.

BBC: Actresses lead Bafta rising star nominees

Previous recipients of the Rising Star award, sponsored by telecommunications giant Orange, include Shia LaBeouf and Kristen Stewart.

BBC: Bafta Rising Star award nominees

The winner of the EE Rising Star Award will be unveiled at the Baftas on 10 February.

BBC: Juno Temple: Rising star set for Sundance

British starlet Juno Temple, who most recently starred opposite Matthew McConaughey in "Killer Joe, " won the EE Rising Star Award, which is decided by the public.

CNN: 'Argo,' Affleck take top prizes at BAFTAs

Sharma has been rewarded for his debut by being shortlisted for the Bafta Rising Star award.

BBC: The challenge of bringing Pi to life

Rising star chef of the year, an award given to chefs under 31, went to Marcus Samuelsson.

CNN: trotter

On the night, Casino went away with one win for best sound - plus a Rising Star award for Eva Green, who played Bond girl Vesper Lynd.

BBC: Baftas 2013 analysis: Will Skyfall have licence to thrill?