Robert Powell stars in this "tale of exorcism" about a mathematics professor plagued by convention, ideas and religion. He visits old professors and even older theologians, steals a sacred icon, suffers the temptations of St. Augustine (his namesake), and of course alienates his girlfriend with his strange behavior. Variety reviewer Ron Holloway calls Imperative a "fascinating tale full of ideas. Powell has a sort of illuminated quality that fits the role. The realm of ideas is given a visual force by Zanussi's fine observation."