Proteus (2003) is an ambitious film featuring the story of an interracial gay love affair in a Dutch penal colony. There is an imprisoned white sailor and a black prisoner who carry on a lustful affair that transform into something deeper. There is also closeted married plantation owner. 

The plot tries to weave into subtexts deeper than the overall theme but does not overcome the campy almost Harlequin Book feel of the movie. There are emotional highpoints for the actors and edgy gay love scenes but the film never rises above its B rated soapish plane.

The cinematography is beautiful and the period costumes are well done.  If you are in the mood for a soapy gay film, then rent the DVD.