Carolina Rain | NextLens Online Film Festival 2026

Jesse, a fifteen-year-old depression era teen, and his sister Rosa Lee have been living under the heel of their sadistic Uncle Amis who has forced them to live in a dilapidated barn like animals. When Amis begins forcing Rosa Lee into prostitution to make money on side, Jesse decides that he has had enough and with nothing to lose, murders the next trick. However, during the vicious fight, Rosa Lee is badly wounded. 

Fearing retaliation from Amis, Jesse, and Rosa Lee escape into the Carolina woods. With no place to run, they decide to hike to an old church that might be willing to take them in and offer them the freedom they so desperately desire.

About the Filmmaker

Solomon Pardue enjoys playing both electric and acoustic guitar, which he picked up last year. He also loves writing music and poetry as a form of artistic expression, using creativity to communicate ideas, emotions, and personal experiences. In addition to his artistic interests, Solomon has been playing golf for seven years, primarily as a social activity and a competitive outlet in tournaments.”

Solomon owns and operates his own lawn care business, which he has successfully run for the past four years. With 12 regular clients, this experience has taught him independence, responsibility, and the value of hard work. Through balancing creativity with entrepreneurship, Solomon continues to develop discipline, self-motivation, and a strong work ethic.

About NextLens

The NextLens Online Film Festival showcases the talented and innovative aspiring filmmakers from South Carolina. With the minimum age of sixteen, honorees are selected from South Carolina high schools, colleges and universities. The online film festival will be held annually each Spring featuring some of the brightest producers and their creative short films.