Leonard Maltin -- 'Straight Outta Compton' is Oscar Worthy

Famed film critic Leonard Maltin has high praise for "Straight Outta Compton" ... and we're talkin' Oscars.

Maltin was leaving LAX Tuesday when our photog asked if the Dr. Dre flick will be a contender in 2016.

Leonard's a big deal in the movie biz ... he's a respected critic, so his opinion could have an impact.