Abstract: An apparatus for forming shaped bodies from a thermoplastic film has a stationary support, a downwardly directed upper tool fixed on the support, means for feeding the film in a transport direction in steps underneath the upper tool, a lower shaft pivotal in support below the traverse, a frame carried on the shaft and pivotal therewith about an axis of the shaft, an upwardly directed lower tool shiftable on the frame toward and away from the axis, a pair of arms extending radially from the shaft, a link extending between one of the arms and the lower tool, and a crank drive element. A connecting rod extends between the other of the arms and the crank drive element. A stationary cam adjacent the frame has a nonstraight cam formation, and a cam follower on the tool engages the cam formation. A drive rotates the crank drive element.