We recommend you take a breath before reading the following – Batman and Superman will team up in a 2015 movie, directed by Zack Snyder. The long-standing rumor about an upcoming Justice League franchise from Warner Bros. is finally coming to life, with Flash and Justice League films possibly in the works for 2016 and 2017, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The studio confirmed the news during a lengthy, two-and-a-half hour panel in Hall H this Saturday. To be fair, the panel also contained announcements about a number of upcoming projects, including a live action World of Warcraft movie, Godzilla, 300: Rise of an Empire and a freaking Lego movie – all prospects thoroughly exciting for geeks the world over.

Zack Snyder, Man of Steel Premiere
Warner Bros. is once again betting on Snyder for its franchise plans.

We’re still willing to eat our hats, if anyone paid any attention to a word mentioned after the Batman/Superman announcement though. The movie is clearly a response to the success of Marvel’s Avengers and an obvious step towards a full-fledged Justice League film. Unlike Marvel however, Warner Bros. have apparently decided to take an additional step to raise expectations and fan excitement for the big one - a collaboration between two heroes, before unleashing the mayhem that is Justice League on the world. After all, while Man of Steel was a considerable success, it didn’t even come close to the earnings of Iron Man 3, released earlier in the summer. As far as excitement goes, a cross-over between the two most famous superheroes on the planet should probably do it.

Zack Snyder, CinemaCon
The Snyder-helmed flick is geared for a 2015 release.

In case you’re wondering, Henry Cavill will be reprising his role as Superman, while the studio is currently on the lookout for their next Batman. Christian Bale has left some big shoes to fill though and it might be a while before we hear that announcement.

Henry Cavill, Man of Steel Australian Premiere
Cavill will reprise his role as Kal-El.