A film features a base layer including an aliphatic thermoplastic urethane having substantially planar upper and lower surfaces. The upper surface includes a substantially coextensive topcoat layer while the lower surface may feature either a substantially coextensive adhesive layer (optionally with a release sheet contacting the exposed surface of the adhesive layer) or alternatively a second, substantially coextensive topcoat layer. The base layer preferably has a cross-sectional thickness of between approximately 0.0254 mm (1 mil) to approximately 5.08 mm (200.0 mil). According to one embodiment, the base layer has a cross-sectional thickness of between 0.0762 mm (3.0 mil) to approximately 0.508 mm (20.0 mil), and is particularly useful as a protective film for the exterior surfaces of objects such as automobiles, boats, houses, and the like. Alternatively, the base layer has a cross-sectional thickness of 1.016 mm (40 mil) to 5.08 mm (200.0 mil) and is particularly useful for transparent panels/windows such as automotive windows and panels for enclosures.