Ep 15. Mysterious Mysteries / Future Dib

Mysterious Mysteries / Future Dib is the fifteenth episode of the animated television series Invader Zim, originally aired on March 22, 2002. The episode is divided into two parts, each focusing on a different character.

In the first part, Mysterious Mysteries, Zim and GIR watch a television program of the same name, in which a host investigates supernatural occurrences. The host of the show, a man named Bill, claims to have special powers that allow him to sense otherworldly activity. Zim becomes convinced that Bill is onto him and his true identity as an alien invader. He decides to infiltrate the show and prove Bill wrong.

Meanwhile, Dib becomes obsessed with the show and begins investigating alongside Bill. The two eventually find themselves on the same case as Zim, but Zim manages to outsmart them and maintain his cover. In the end, the true supernatural force is revealed to be a space monster that Zim inadvertently created.

In the second part, Future Dib, Dib becomes convinced that the world will end in the near future due to an alien invasion. He creates a machine that allows him to travel forward in time, but he only manages to go ten years ahead. He finds that his future self is helpless to stop the invasion and has become a pathetic recluse. The two Dibs work together to change the course of events and prevent the invasion from happening.

The episode features the series' trademark humor and bizarre visuals, with both segments incorporating sci-fi and supernatural elements. The first part is a parody of paranormal investigation shows, with Bill's exaggerated claims and Zim's inept attempts at infiltration providing plenty of laughs. The second part is darker in tone, exploring the consequences of obsessively pursuing a goal. The episode also features appearances from supporting characters such as Gaz, who makes a brief appearance in the second part.

Overall, Mysterious Mysteries / Future Dib is a strong entry in the series' first season, showcasing the unique humor and offbeat storytelling that made Invader Zim a cult hit. Whether it's watching Zim comically fail at maintaining his cover or witnessing the bleak future that awaits Dib, viewers are sure to be entertained by this episode's wild ride.