This invention relates in general to the formation of thick films having a biaxial molecular orientation. Such films are prepared in accordance with the present invention from rod-like extended chain aromatic-heterocyclic ordered polymers. Such films have high tensile strength, modulus, and environmental resistance characteristics. A preferred ordered polymer for use in the present invention is poly (para-phenylenebenzo bisthiazole), (PBT), a compound having the structure: ##STR1## The present invention is also directed to methods and apparatus suitable for producing biaxially oriented films, coatings, and like materials from ordered polymers, preferably PBT.