Does Justice League Merchandise Foreshadow Justice League Movie?

Justice League just might be the most anticipated movie that has not been officially announced. Rumors suggest that the film will be released in either 2015 or 2016, but Warner Bros. has yet to confirm anything. While movement on the Justice League movie front has been sluggish, DC Entertainment seems to be much more active on the merchandising side. Around a week ago, Target announced a new partnership with DC Entertainment to offer an extensive summer collection of exclusive Justice League merchandise. The summer collection is based on the New 52 Justice League design, including Aquaman, Batman, Cyborg, The Flash, Green Lantern, Superman and Wonder Woman. The Justice League summer collection launched in Target on Sunday, May 19. "We know Target's guests love discovering unique merchandise, and this collection delivers the unexpected with a dash of great design. Fans of all ages are sure to love these one-of-a-kind summer items," said Greg Van Bellinger, director of product design and development, Target. "DC Comics' Justice League characters are a powerful assemblage of the most recognizable Super Heroes in the history of comic books. We are incredibly excited to offer fans of all ages a unique collection and collaboration that pairs the heroics of the Justice League characters with the product design and marketing super powers of Target," said Brad Globe, president of Warner Bros. Consumer Products. In addition to the exclusive summer collection, Target will be part of a broader partnership with Warner Bros. Consumer Products that will offer more traditional Justice League licensed products. The broader partnership will span more than 20 categories including home, stationery, toys, apparel and accessories. All Justice League licensed products will range from $1 for Justice League temporary tattoos to $59.99 for a Justice League Rocker Chair. Target will also offer Justice League Halloween costumes for kids later this year. With all this new Justice League merchandise being featured at Target, Variety thinks Warner Bros. and DC Entertainment might be up to something. Could all the new Justice League merchandise be to get retailers familiar with the product in advance of a Justice League movie?