Scarlett Johansson -- Idina Expect John Travolta ... To Get So Touchy

Nobody felt as much at the Oscars as John Travolta -- just ask Scarlett Johansson ... who got up close with JT's hands even before Idina Menzel.

If you thought Travolta's overly touching moment on stage with Idina was strange -- and it definitely was -- imagine Scarlett's surprise on the red carpet.

John warmed up his hands pre-award show by sneaking up on Scarlett -- caressing her stomach and planting a kiss on her as she was posing for photogs.