to me there appears that you might be using a touch more contrast than need be.
I agree. I realize you are trying to create a look and style, but in the end, if the result is just dark images, or it does not work or suit the images, I see little point in trying to achieve any new or desired look. The style and look of an image should come as much from the subject matter as from what we want an image to look like. In the shot of the boy going over the fence, he looks almost pasted on the scene.
How about a little less contrast and touch more brightness:
[attachment=11938:33306468...5_o_copy.jpg][
JMR