Dr. Dre 'threatens to sue Sony over film depicting him as a woman beater'

Dr. Dre has delivered a clear threat over an upcoming TV movie that depicts him beating his ex-girlfriend senseless ... he's threatening to sue if it airs. 

Sony Pictures is set to release "Surviving Compton: Dre, Suge & Michel'le" ... a film that depicts Dre as a woman beater. TMZ learned Dre's legal team fired off a cease and desist letter ... demanding that Sony back off, if it doesn't want to end up in court. 

According to the letter, Dre flatly denies ever abusing Michel'le. It makes reference to the fact that they dated around 30 years ago and she never hinted at abuse or any type of violent behavior on his part. They also say she never sought medical treatment or filed a police report. 

TMZ was told Dre's character in the film is extremely violent -- attacking Michel'le by pulling her hair, punching her in the face and even pulling a gun on her.

Dre's attorneys have also warned Michel'le to back off.

The film is set for release next week