Abstract: A multi-layer, gas-barrier, biaxially oriented and heat-shrinkable film includes a first outer heat-sealable layer, an inner gas-barrier layer, and a second outer abuse resistant layer, the film containing at least 28%, by weight of the film, of polystyrene polymer, such as a high styrene styrene-butadiene block copolymer. The polystyrene copolymer can be present in the second outer abuse-resistant layer, and/or in one or more inner layers positioned between the first outer heat-sealable layer and the inner gas-barrier layer, and/or in one or more inner layers positioned between the gas-barrier layer and the second outer abuse layer. The film of the invention is particularly suitable to be deep-drawn to form a flexible container in a packaging process where the final vacuum lidded package is heat-shrunk.