Reversion takes places in stages. The normal mode is of course "normal mode"
The reversion process is as follows:
1. Secondary mode
2. Direct mode
The above modes still require electric power. When it is not available, the mechanical backup you refer to is used to control the plane.
It consists of cables from the flight deck to selected spoilers, and the stabilizer. As far as I know, there are no cables to the rudders.
Pardon me if only the last bit answers your question. Kinda felt I needed to paint the full picture.
Perhaps an airbus driver could fill in the details on the bus though i don't think there are cables linking the sidestick to the surfaces. Still required electricity of some sort to drive the flight control system (batteries etc in the event of total generator failure).