Badlands, Terrence Malick (Google)
The Tree of Life, Terrence Malick (Google)
The scene described the character as having endured so much (maybe pain) a few hours ago, the rain pouring down on he or she now feels like nothing. Thus, these images were chosen to evoke a sense of enlightenment or freedom achieved by the character, that he or she can now let go of the burden that was endured before.
You bring up a good point about the story. In fact, in the script we never know what the protagonist has just gone through. The moment he/she stands under the rain could be the best and brand new start of his/her life.
If this is the case, what would you do, add or design to enhance this optimistic vibe? Obviously these two images is not enough to show it.