I feel compelled to post a follow-up re DVDs as they relate to the massage experience:

1) the majority of foot massage places in China that charge more than Y50 have DVD players and a decent stock of DVDs on hand
2) in most cases, it's possible to find something watchable on the house list, but I personally like to come armed with a movie of my choosing (particularly at Taipan, where foot massages run 75+ minutes)
3) at some locations, it's necessary to compel the staff to play your chosen DVD ---> there's no need to make it a hot button issue
4) during a layover of your variety, I'd probably be inclined to go for a full body treatment in lieu of the foot massage (though doing both would be nice), which would further downplay the relevance of DVDs (i.e. they'll still play them for you, but they are hard to enjoy when you're staring at the floor/ceiling)
5) quality is just fine as long as you don't go for the very latest releases
6) I'm quite sure you can still pick up good DVDs in Guangzhou and Qingdao; the shops may not be as easy to spot as they were 5 years back, but they are still there