This paper presents the results of tensile tests on viscoelastic films of two materials: a 100 pen bitumen and a commercial corn syrup. Experiments were performed using double-cantilever beam specimens, and butt-joint specimens, for a wide range of testing conditions. Failure by brittle fracture, voiding, and various viscous flow mechanisms was observed. The results are presented in the form of maps and are discussed in conjunction with appropriate mathematical models. (C) 2003 Kluwer Academic Publishers.