Robert Redford admits that "it hasn't been easy" running the Sundance Film Festival for over three decades.

The chairman of the annual event is intent on bringing the independent spirit back to the showcase this year.

Inspired by the Occupy Movement, the event's programme will begin with films exploring the wealthiest one percent and end with screenings of "everyman" stories.

Robert is happy with the direction that this year's festival is taking.

"[After 28 years] it hasn't been easy," Robert told Extra. "The leveraging that started to take place around the festival sometimes overwhelmed who we were and the way we did things."

Robert stated at a press conference earlier this week that he considered the socio-economic times in the US to be "grim."

The current state of affairs in American politics disgusts him.

"I'm shocked that [the Republican Party] would allow themselves to exhibit how egocentric, how ego-mad they are, how willing they are to switch gears, flip-flop-lie at the expense of our viewership," Robert said. "I don't even watch anymore, it's so stupid."

Robert's professional ambitions are equally as strong as his political stance. The 75-year-old thespian is eager to start shooting new films soon.

"I'm up for grandfather stuff," Robert shared. "[I want to work with one actress in particular], but I'm not gonna tell you who it is."

This year's Sundance Film Festival will take place between January 19-29 in Park City, Utah.